Travel sickness is a common problem that can occur when you travel by car, bus, boat, train or plane. It is usually harmless, but it can make the journey very uncomfortable.
What is travel sickness?
Travel sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, the inner ear and the body’s balance system. The body senses that it is moving, but the eyes may perceive that you are sitting still. This conflict can lead to nausea and dizziness.
The symptoms are common during car journeys, boat trips, flights and train journeys. Some people may also experience similar symptoms at amusement parks, while playing computer games or when looking at their phone during a journey.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms of travel sickness include nausea, dizziness, headache, cold sweats, paleness and vomiting. Some people also become tired, lose their appetite or produce more saliva.
The symptoms may get worse if you are tired, hungry, stressed or sitting in a place where you cannot see the road or the horizon.
Why do people get travel sick?
Travel sickness is caused by the balance system reacting to movements that the brain has difficulty interpreting. This is why many people feel more travel sick when they read, look at their phone or sit in the back seat of a car.
Passengers often feel more travel sick than drivers, because the driver can more easily anticipate turns, braking and movement.
How to prevent travel sickness
There are several simple things you can do to reduce the risk of travel sickness. Try to sit where movement is felt the least and where you can see outside. In a car, the front seat may be better than the back seat. On a boat, it may help to be outside in the fresh air and look towards the horizon.
Avoid reading, playing games or looking at your phone for a long time during the journey. It is a good idea to eat lightly before departure and avoid large meals, strong smells and alcohol. Taking breaks, drinking small amounts of water and keeping your head as still as possible may also help.
What can help when nausea starts?
If you start to feel nauseous, try looking at the horizon or at a fixed object far away. Fresh air, calm breathing and closing your eyes for a while may also ease the symptoms. If possible, a short break from travelling can help the body recover.
There are also products and medicines for travel sickness, but they are not suitable for everyone. Always read the instructions carefully and ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure.
When should you seek help?
Travel sickness usually passes when the journey is over. If the nausea, dizziness or vomiting does not go away, or if the symptoms are very severe, it may be a good idea to contact healthcare services for advice.