Motion Sickness

Overview

Motion sickness is characterised by nausea and vomiting during sea, air, bus or car travel in certain susceptible individuals. It can be induced by both real and apparent motion and is thought to arise from the mismatch of information reaching the brain. It can be controlled by the usual sedatives.

Signs and Symptoms

Cold sweats, Pallor, Fatigue, Yawning, Headache, Nausea and Vomiting, Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, Mood changes

Common Causes

Repeated movements when travelling, Riding in a car, boat, airplane, or other moving vehicle Poor ventilation in the vehicle

Risk Factors

Women have a higher risk than men Sleep deprivation Alcohol or drug use History of migraine, anxiety, frequent vomiting or nausea Cigarette smoke or strong odors Pregnancy

Investigation Techniques

Rarely but option for investigations are: Audiography and vestibular testing, CT Brain, Canalith-repositioning maneuvers

Treatment and Prevention

To prevent motion sickness do not read, rest your head against the seat back, to keep it still, turn the air vents toward your face, eat light meals and do not smoke while travelling in a vehicle. Medications which helps to masks motion sickness: scopolamine, promethazine, cyclizine, dimenhydrinate, meclizine Cognitive behavioral therapy Acupuncture might help for certain people