Motion Sickness: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Motion sickness, also known as kinetosis, is a common condition that occurs when the body receives conflicting signals from different senses, such as the eyes, inner ears, and sensors in the stomach. The symptoms of motion sickness can vary in severity and may include:

Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or stomach upset, which can lead to vomiting.
Dizziness: A feeling of spinning or swaying, which can cause a sense of disorientation.
Lightheadedness: A feeling of being lightheaded or dizzy.
Headache: A headache can occur due to the conflicting signals received by the brain.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or exhausted due to the body’s attempt to adjust to the conflicting signals.
Eye strain: Straining of the eyes due to focusing on multiple stimuli at once.
Cold sweat: Breaking out in a cold sweat due to the stress and discomfort caused by motion sickness.
Stomach cramps: Cramping in the stomach due to the conflicting signals and nausea.
Loss of appetite: A loss of appetite due to the discomfort and nausea associated with motion sickness.

Motion sickness can occur in response to various types of motion, including:

Sea sickness: Motion sickness that occurs while on a boat or ship.
Air sickness: Motion sickness that occurs while on an airplane or helicopter.
Car sickness: Motion sickness that occurs while driving or riding in a car.
Train sickness: Motion sickness that occurs while riding on a train.
Amusement park sickness: Motion sickness that occurs while on amusement park rides.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention if they are severe or persistent, as they can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment.

What are the causes of motion sickness?

Motion sickness occurs when there is a mismatch between the sensory signals that the brain receives from the eyes, inner ears (vestibular system), and other parts of the body. This conflict can lead to a variety of symptoms. The primary causes and contributing factors of motion sickness include:

Sensory conflict: The most common cause of motion sickness is the conflicting messages received by the brain. For example, when reading in a moving vehicle, the inner ear senses movement, but the eyes are focused on a stationary object, leading to sensory confusion.
Vestibular system dysfunction: The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. If this system is overly sensitive or not functioning properly, it can lead to symptoms of motion sickness.
Rapid movements: Quick movements, such as sudden starts, stops, or changes in direction (like spinning or turning), can increase the likelihood of developing motion sickness.
Anxiety and stress: Individuals who are anxious or stressed may be more susceptible to motion sickness. Psychological factors can amplify the perception of discomfort during motion.
Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to motion sickness, making them more likely to experience symptoms.
Hormonal factors: Hormonal changes (such as those occurring during pregnancy) can affect susceptibility to motion sickness.
Age: Motion sickness is more common in children, but it can also occur in adults. Children often outgrow motion sickness as their sensory systems and midbrain mature.
Previous experiences: A history of motion sickness can make an individual more likely to experience it again in similar situations.
Fatigue: Being tired or fatigued can increase the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness symptoms.

While the exact reasons why some individuals are more prone to motion sickness than others are not fully understood, understanding these causes can help people take preventive measures and manage symptoms when they arise.

How is the diagnosis of motion sickness made?

The diagnosis of motion sickness is primarily based on a person’s reported symptoms, medical history, and the context in which those symptoms occur. A formal diagnostic process typically includes the following steps:

Medical History: The healthcare provider will begin by taking a detailed medical history. This includes asking questions about:

The frequency and severity of symptoms (e.g., nausea, dizziness, vomiting).
Specific situations or modes of transportation (such as car, boat, airplane) that trigger symptoms.
Any relevant past medical history, including previous episodes of motion sickness or other related conditions.

Symptom Evaluation: Patients will be asked to describe their symptoms in detail, including:

When the symptoms occur (during travel, after travel, etc.).
How long the symptoms last.
Any patterns or changes in symptoms over time.
Any associated factors, such as fatigue or stress.

Physical Examination: In some cases, a physical examination may be performed to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms. This can include checking balance, coordination, and other neurologic functions.
Exclusion of Other Conditions: Since symptoms of motion sickness can overlap with other conditions (such as vestibular disorders, inner ear conditions, migraines, or gastrointestinal issues), healthcare providers may perform additional tests if necessary to rule out other potential causes. These tests may include:

Hearing tests.
Balance tests (such as the Romberg test).
Imaging studies (e.g., MRI or CT scans), although typically not needed for motion sickness unless another condition is suspected.

Response to Treatment: In some cases, the diagnosis may also be confirmed based on the individual’s response to treatment. If prescribed medications or behavioral strategies result in a significant reduction of symptoms, it further supports the diagnosis of motion sickness.

Overall, because motion sickness is primarily a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and context, healthcare providers rely heavily on a thorough patient history and symptom description rather than complex diagnostic tests. If motion sickness is suspected to be part of a broader condition or disorder, referrals to specialists (such as neurologists or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists) may be appropriate for further evaluation.

What is the treatment for motion sickness?

Treatment for motion sickness aims to prevent symptoms and alleviate discomfort when they occur. Several approaches can be utilized, ranging from lifestyle changes and behavioral strategies to medications. Here are some common treatment options for motion sickness:

1. Preventive Strategies:

Select Appropriate Seating: Sit in areas of a vehicle where motion is felt less, such as the front seat of a car, near the wings in an airplane, or in the middle of a boat.
Focus on a Fixed Point: Focusing on the horizon or a stable object can help reduce symptoms.
Avoid Reading: Reading while in motion can trigger or worsen symptoms; it’s better to avoid focusing on stationary objects if prone to motion sickness.
Limit Head Movements: Minimize sudden movements of the head and body.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during travel to help prevent dehydration, which can worsen symptoms.
Eat Lightly: Consuming small, non-greasy meals before traveling can help. Avoid heavy, rich, or spicy foods that may trigger nausea.
Rest: Ensure adequate rest before traveling, as fatigue can exacerbate symptoms.

3. Behavioral Techniques:

Desensitization: Gradual exposure to motion can help reduce sensitivity over time. This may involve practicing short periods of motion exposure and slowly increasing duration.

4. Medications:

Over-the-Counter Medications: Common OTC medications include:
- Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine): Often used to prevent nausea and vomiting. It should be taken about 30-60 minutes before travel.
- Meclizine (Bonine): Another antihistamine that can help prevent motion sickness symptoms.
Prescription Medications: For severe cases, doctors may prescribe medications such as:
- Scopolamine: A prescription patch worn behind the ear, effective for preventing motion sickness. It’s typically applied several hours before travel and can last for up to three days.
- Promethazine: An antihistamine that may be prescribed for more severe symptoms.
Ginger Supplements: Some people find ginger, in the form of ginger tea, candies, or capsules, helpful in alleviating nausea associated with motion sickness.

5. Alternative Therapies:

Acupressure: Wearing acupressure wristbands that apply pressure to specific points on the wrist may help alleviate symptoms.
Aromatherapy: Some individuals benefit from inhaling soothing scents like peppermint or lavender.

6. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

For individuals who develop motion sickness due to anxiety, cognitive-behavioral approaches may help manage anxiety related to travel and improve coping strategies.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for guidance on the most suitable treatment approach, especially if you experience frequent or severe motion sickness. Individual responses to treatments can vary, so finding the best option may require some trial and error.