Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness occurs whether in an airplane, amusement ride, boat, bus, car or train. Anytime your vision differs from your inner ear, thereby confusing the brain. Does not discriminate on age, gender or race.

Some people are particularly prone whether due to birth control, inner ear disorders, inner ear infections, menstruation, migraines, Parkinson’s and/or pregnancy.

We have been very fortunate that neither of us are regularly ill due to motion sickness. That said, we have experienced it once or twice on a cruise ship in the Caribbean and repositioning our vessel from Florida to Maryland on our third night crossing.

Symptoms

• Cold Sweats
• Headache
• Increased Saliva
• Loss of Appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Yawning

Causes & Triggers

• Dehydration
• Extended Below Deck Stay While in Motion
• Extensive Binocular Use
• Fatigue Travel
• Greasy, Heavy & Spicy Meals Before & During Travel 
• Reading
• Video Games

​Remedies

• Acupressure Wrist Bands
• Avoid Alcohol
• Avoid Overeating
• Ear Patch (Scopolamine)
• Ginger or Peppermint Candy
• Hydration
• Lavender or Mint Scents
• Lay Down (if possible)
• Lookout at the Horizon
• Oral Medication (Benadryl or Dramamine)
• Outdoor Fresh Air
• Rest & Sleep
• Saltine Cracker (Nausaness)
• Teas (Black, Chamomile, Ginger, Green, Lemon, Peppermint or Stomach Ease)

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Good to Know

• Be familiar with the side effects of any medication.
• Condition may lower your blood pressure (hypotension).
• Consult with your physician as deemed necessary.
• Have an action plan should one crew become ill.
• Seek medical care as necessary.
• There are medications that do not cause drowsiness.
• Vomiting can cause dehydration.