Motion sickness, also called motion sickness, is a common occurrence that affects 20% of the population. However, women are more likely to be upset by this disorder: they are 70% more likely to have it than men. Children between the ages of 10 and 12 are nevertheless the most affected, according to John Golding, professor and researcher at the University of Westminster.

What causes motion sickness?

The discomforts associated with motion sickness result from a mismatch between visual perception and the center of balance, located in the inner ear. Motion sickness can be caused by any travel in a mobile vehicle, although some means of transport cause less discomfort than others, for example, the train. Symptoms related to motion sickness may decrease when exposure to the same stimulus is repeated over and over. Thus, a person who, during his first trip by car, suffered from motion sickness can see his discomfort fade by repeating the experience.

What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Faintness, dizziness, nausea, headache, cold sweating, drowsiness, hypersalivation, and rapid breathing are all symptoms of motion sickness that can lead to vomiting. These discomforts stop when the body gets used to the movement of the vehicle or when the latter stops. Unless the vomiting persists to dehydration, there is no need to be alarmed by these symptoms.

The importance of choosing the right seat in the vehicle

As motion sickness results from a mismatch between what is seen by the eyes and what is felt by the center of gravity, the choice of seat in the vehicle is essential. The driver never suffers from motion sickness. By taking a seat in the front seat, the passenger will be able to observe the horizon which appears distinct to him rather than seeing the landscapes scrolling to the sides. The seat in the center of the back seat will offer the same view.

Controlling your breathing: an essential factor

Controlling breathing is the most natural way to combat the symptoms of motion sickness. In an article, which appeared in La Presse in 2007, Mr. Golding indicates that “breathing control works in part because it is a way of thinking about something other than vomiting, and also because the reflex preventing vomiting while breathing, to avoid contaminating the lungs, is one of the most basic. For this reason, it is recommended that the vehicle windows be opened, if possible, to let in fresh air.

Plants against nausea

Ginger

To fight against heartache, ginger is quite willing. Numerous studies have made it possible to evaluate the antiemetic effect (= ability to prevent or stop nausea and vomiting) of ginger, more particularly when it is presented in powder form. The most convincing research has been done on pregnant women and people who have had surgery. In particular, it has been shown that 1 g of powdered ginger is more effective than a placebo¹.

Peppermint

Clinical trials have shown that spearmint can counter nausea and soothe headaches, two of the ailments that can be experienced with motion sickness. In addition, its use is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Mélissa Archambault – PasseportSanté.net

Chaiyakunapruk N, Kitikannakorn N, et al. The efficacy of ginger for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting: a meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006 January;194(1):95-9.