What are some ways to prevent or treat motion sickness?


Quick Answer

Motion sickness prevention methods include being the driver rather than the passenger of a vehicle, minimizing sensory input, staying hydrated, incorporating distractions and choosing seats based on where the person experiences the least motion sickness, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some medications doctors prescribe to treat motion sickness include antihistamines, cyclizine, promethazine, antidopaminergic drugs and benzodiazepines

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Full Answer

People sometimes find that sitting in the front seat of a vehicle makes them less likely to experience motion sickness, according to the CDC. Sitting in a seat located above the wing is sometimes helpful when flying in an airplane. Some individuals find it helps to minimize their sensory input by closing their eyes or lying face down, while others distract themselves with things such as flavored lozenges, aromatherapy scents or music. Additionally, eating small meals and refraining from drinking alcohol or caffeine on the day of travel reduces the risk of motion sickness.

Certain prescription medications can exacerbate the nausea that occurs with motion sickness, notes the CDC. Examples include certain antibiotics, estrogen-containing drugs, narcotic analgesics, antidepressants and asthma medications. Women are more susceptible to motion sickness than men, especially during times of hormonal fluctuation, such as when menstruating or pregnant. Children between the ages of 2 and 12 are also especially likely to experience motion sickness, as are individuals with a history of migraines.

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