Many American families will travel by car this
summer, logging over 1.4 trillion miles. During these trips, an estimated one out of five people
will experience some form of car sickness. This uncomfortable condition has a
definite pattern of symptoms. First, they become pale, followed by yawning,
restlessness, lightheadedness, a cold sweat and an upset stomach. Unless the cycle is
interrupted, the condition then proceeds to vomiting. Many times the symptoms do not
always run their full course. Most older teens and adults will instinctively lie down
with their eyes closed, which often stabilizes the condition. If the parents experienced
motion sickness when they were young, then their teens are more susceptible. The
condition generally lessens as you grow older.
Motion sickness occurs when the brain is unable to
process the conflicting messages it receives about the body's position and movement
through space. The inner ear, which regulates balance, contains several complex structures
that tell the brain which direction the body is moving. The brain also receives signals
from the eyes, body hair and sensors in the muscles. When a susceptible person is sitting
in the back seat of a moving car, the inner ear senses motion while the eyes, seeing only
the inside of the car, detect none. The brain does not know what to make of the confusing
messages and the symptoms of motion sickness result.
What can you do for motion sickness? The
following advice applies to all (the one exception is
that adults who are prone to car sickness should travel in the front seat of the car,
which is not safe for younger children at any time).
1. Elevate yourself so
you can look out the window and see the direction you are traveling. This allows the
eyes to see the motion that the inner ear is feeling. Motion sickness can be
reduced by traveling at night when visual stimulation is reduced.
2. Do not read or play games
while traveling. Instead, focus on things outside the car - traffic, billboards,
signs, etc.
3. Avoid strong odors, such as smoking, in the
car.
4. Do not eat spicy or
greasy foods immediately before and during travel.
5. Take one of the many motion sickness
medicines before travel begins, as recommended by your physician. Since it is easier to
prevent motion sickness than it is to stop it, medication should be given 30 to 60 minutes
before travel and continued during the trip. Some of these medications can be purchased
without prescription and are generally safe for people two years and older. Examples
include Marezine®, Dramamine®, Benadryl®, and Bonine®. Check labels carefully for
dosages, precautions and age restrictions. Adolescents over the age of twelve may take a
prescription drug such as scopolamine (Transderm-Scop®) if the over-the-counter
medications are not effective.
6. Good ventilation and loose comfortable clothing
can also help. Keep fresh air flowing.
7. Stop frequently while traveling so you
can get out and walk around. Know the early warning signs of motion sickenss and stop the
car at the first sign of a problem.
8. If you do become sick while traveling, lie down. If you have vomited, have some cool water and a light snack, such as
crackers, pretzels, or a popsicle. An attack of motion sickness in the back seat during a
vacation can be extremely unpleasant for everyone. Remember, it is not your fault
and you cannot help it. Getting upset or angry only makes matters worse.
