On the Road? Here’s How to Prevent Motion Sickness

Feeling Queasy: Whether it’s happened while riding in a car or on a boat, or even playing a virtual reality game, most people have experienced motion sickness and the nausea, sweating, dizziness, and vomiting it causes. It happens because of a disconnect between what we see and what we feel when we’re in motion and how the brain registers this movement. Children are more susceptible to it, as are people who get vestibular migraines. Plenty of medications and products promise to quell the queasiness, but is it possible to prevent motion sickness all together? 

How to Do It: Yes, with some planning. Antihistamines (like Dramamine) are effective, but they must be taken ahead of time to work and can cause drowsiness. Driving yourself or riding shotgun can help prevent motion sickness in a car. On a boat, plane, or train, choose a seat where you can see the horizon — like the middle of a boat, over the wing of a plane, or facing forward on a train. Or try prescription scopolamine patches, which can be worn behind the ear for several days. 

The Benefits: Motion sickness can keep people from doing activities they either want or need to do. When you know potentially triggering activities are on the agenda, a little planning can keep you functional.