Motion Sickness: What It Is and How to Stop It

If you’ve ever felt sick on a car ride, boat, or plane, you know how annoying motion sickness can be. It’s just your brain getting mixed signals from eyes, inner ear, and body movement. The result? Nausea, cold sweats, and sometimes vomiting.

Why Your Body Gets Queasy

The inner ear holds tiny crystals that help sense balance. When you’re moving in a way your eyes don’t expect—like reading in a car—the brain gets confused. That confusion triggers the nausea center in the brain, and you feel sick.

Simple Tricks to Beat Motion Sickness

Here are everyday moves that work for most people:

• Look at the horizon. Focusing on a steady point outside the vehicle helps your brain match what it sees with what you feel.
• Sit in the front seat. You’ll see the road sooner and get less jerky motion than in the back.
• Avoid reading or screens. Close‑up work keeps your eyes fixed inside, which makes the mismatch worse.
• Take a break for fresh air. Open a window or step outside if you can; cool air often eases nausea.

If you’re on a boat, staying on deck and facing forward works best. On a plane, choose an aisle seat over the wing area where motion feels smoother.

Natural Remedies That Really Help

Many people find relief with ginger. Try ginger tea, chews, or capsules about 30 minutes before travel. Peppermint candy or oil can calm your stomach too—just sniff it when you start feeling queasy.

Acupressure bands that press on the P6 point (inner wrist) are cheap and easy. They’re worth a try if you don’t want medication.

Over‑the‑Counter Options

If home tricks aren’t enough, an OTC drug like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine works for most travelers. Take it an hour before you start moving; a lower dose can prevent drowsiness.

Read the label and don’t mix these meds with alcohol or other sedatives. If you have health conditions, check with your doctor first.

When to See a Doctor

Most motion sickness passes quickly, but see a professional if:

• You vomit for more than 24 hours.
• You can’t keep any fluids down.
• The nausea is so strong it interferes with daily life even when you’re not traveling.

A doctor may prescribe stronger medication or suggest vestibular therapy to train your balance system.

Planning Ahead for Trips

Before a long journey, do a quick test: sit in a car and read for 10 minutes. If you feel sick, try the tricks above before the real trip. Packing ginger snacks, a water bottle, and an acupressure band takes only seconds but can save hours of discomfort.

Remember, motion sickness is common—most people experience it at least once. With these easy tips and a bit of preparation, you can keep your stomach calm and enjoy the ride.