Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a condition that causes nausea, dizziness, and discomfort when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ear, and body during movement.
Quick Facts
- Common during travel by car, boat, plane, or amusement rides
- Can affect both children and adults
- Symptoms may begin quickly after motion starts
- Usually improves once movement stops
- Preventive strategies and medications can reduce symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms of motion sickness may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold sweats
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Headache
- Increased salivation
Causes
Motion sickness occurs when sensory systems send mismatched information to the brain. For example, the eyes may perceive movement while the inner ear does not, or vice versa.
This mismatch can also trigger the body’s stress response, which may worsen nausea or lead to symptoms similar to a nervous stomach in some individuals.
Common triggers include:
- Car, boat, or air travel
- Rough or repetitive motion
- Reading or screen use during movement
- Poor ventilation or strong odors
Risk Factors
You may be more likely to experience motion sickness if you:
- Have a history of migraines
- Are pregnant
- Are sensitive to visual motion
- Have inner ear or balance disorders
- Are a child between ages 2 and 12
Treatments
Treatment focuses on symptom relief and prevention and may include:
- Avoiding triggers or limiting motion exposure
- Sitting in stable positions during travel
- Over-the-counter or prescription medications
- Behavioral techniques such as focusing on the horizon
- Acupressure or other non-drug approaches
When to Seek Care
See a doctor if motion sickness is severe, persistent, or interferes with daily activities, or if symptoms occur without motion or are accompanied by neurological changes.
