If you or someone in your family suffers from motion sickness, you have an extra element to prepare for when traveling for the holidays. Not everyone experiences motion sickness the same, and it may not happen every time. For example, some people get motion sick on a cruise ship but not in a car. Others may get queasy when they are on a train but not on an airplane.
Common symptoms of motion sickness include sweating, nausea, dizziness, saliva in the mouth that is more than usual, and vomiting. Most people know when it is coming on and do all they can to minimize the effects.
Many women suffer from Motion sickness when they are pregnant due to the changes taking place in their bodies. Children are also quite susceptible to it.
There are plenty of things you can do on your own to help prevent motion sickness from occurring. Many adults find they don’t suffer from motion sickness if they drive the car. This is because the sensors in their brain view the scenery flashing by differently when they are in the driver’s seat. This is why so many get sick when they travel by train. If you are susceptible to motion sickness as a passenger in a car, avoid a window seat on a train. You also want to avoid those seats that face backward.
Children should avoid trying to play games or read books in a moving vehicle if they suffer from motion sickness. They should also ride in the middle seat to offer them a view out the front of the car instead of from their peripheral vision on the side windows. Offer them light snacks before travel, such as crackers and water. Avoid having them travel on an empty stomach or after eating a large meal.
For those that still suffer from motion sickness, an over the counter or prescription medication may be required for successful holiday travel. Make sure you carefully follow the instructions of such drugs. Don’t exceed the recommended dose. If it says to take it with food or water, then make sure you do so. Some of them require consumption during a specific period before your departure, so pay attention to this critical detail.
Even so, no method or medication is 100% foolproof when it comes to motion sickness. Some people experience it only once in a while, and others deal with it all the time. Try to get to some fresh air if possible. If you are on an airplane, turn on the sky above you and take slow, deep breaths. You will find bags offered in case you do end up having to vomit. You can also try to make your way to the bathroom where you will have more privacy.
While it may be embarrassing, you need to understand that you aren’t the only one with problems with motion sickness. The fact that the mode of transportation you are taking may be full during the holiday season can be stressful, but you will never have to see most of them ever again. You may want to carry extra clothing with you for those in your part which suffer from motion sickness, especially children who may end up vomiting on their clothing.
Don’t let your holiday travel plans be stopped due to your fear of suffering from motion sickness. Do all you can to subside the symptoms on your own. If that isn’t effective, then try various over the counter products. As a last resort as your doctor for a prescription medication to help ensure you can get through the travel process so you can enjoy your holidays. If you find specific transportation types are more difficult for you than others, you should avoid them if possible.
