When traveling by car, train, plane, or ship, significant jolts, abrupt ascents/descents, or rotational movements cause the human body to shift frequently.the body's position changes frequently. The extent of these changes can exceed the adaptive capacity of some individuals' vestibular system, causing temporary disruption in the function of the vestibular nerves in the inner ear. Combined with adverse visual and olfactory stimuli during travel, as well as the jostling of internal organs, this leads to a series of symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. This is the manifestation of motion sickness (car, boat, plane), medically termed kinetosis.Factors such as excessive fatigue, hunger, overeating, physical weakness, mental stress, damp and stuffy surroundings, poor air quality, or witnessing someone else vomiting can exacerbate or trigger this condition. Severe cases may even lead to collapse or shock, making prevention and treatment essential.
First and foremost, prevention is key. Individuals traveling by vehicle for the first time, those with a history of motion sickness, first-time ocean travelers, and highly sensitive individuals should maintain a positive mindset before departure, as fear, sadness, and anxiety can trigger symptoms. Additionally, continuous self-affirmation—firmly believing one will not experience motion sickness—serves as an effective psychological strategy.If experiencing hunger, overindulgence, or fatigue, take oral medication in advance for prevention. Choose one or two of the following: Phenergan (benzoclorazepate hydrochloride), or Dramamine (dimenhydrinate). Take one tablet half an hour before departure; if needed, take another tablet 4-5 hours later.For extended journeys, take 1 tablet 2-3 times daily. Additionally, apply mentholated balms like Tiger Balm or Eucalyptus Oil to temples, or chew dried tangerine peel, dried plum, or a handful of tea leaves to neutralize fuel odors and suppress nausea. Upon experiencing motion sickness, apply a cold towel to the face and chest to alleviate symptoms.When feeling nauseous, find a place to vomit thoroughly—the cleaner you vomit, the better you'll feel. When looking out the window, focus your gaze on distant scenery. If traveling by boat, adjust your lying position: - If the boat rocks side-to-side, lie parallel to the boat's movement, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. - If the boat pitches forward and backward with waves, lie flat sideways, close your eyes, and take deep breaths.When traveling by car, move to the front seats to reduce jolting. Face forward to minimize visual stimulation from rapidly moving scenery. Open windows to let cool air flow in, alleviating chest tightness and nausea. On airplanes, breathe through your mouth to ease symptoms.