Motion sickness can be an unpleasant and debilitating experience for anyone, especially when traveling by airplane. It can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and other uncomfortable symptoms that can ruin your travel experience. However, there are several ways to prevent motion sickness while flying. In this article, we will explore some effective tips and tricks to help you prevent motion sickness while traveling by airplane.
What is Motion Sickness?
Before we delve into how to prevent motion sickness while traveling by airplane, let’s first understand what motion sickness is. Motion sickness is a condition that occurs when your brain receives conflicting signals from your eyes, inner ear, and other sensory organs. These conflicting signals can cause nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Why do People get Motion Sickness while Traveling by Airplane?
Air travel can cause motion sickness due to various reasons. The most common reasons are turbulence, changes in altitude, and cabin pressure. Other factors that can contribute to motion sickness include the inability to see the horizon, reading while in motion, and sitting in a windowless or middle seat.
Tips and Tricks to Prevent Motion Sickness While Traveling by Airplane?
Now that we have a basic understanding of what motion sickness is and why it occurs during air travel, let’s explore some ways to prevent motion sickness while traveling by airplane.
1. Focus on a Fixed Point
Focusing on a fixed point can help reduce motion sickness. Try to focus on a distant object outside the airplane or the horizon, as this can help your brain reconcile the signals it receives from your eyes and inner ear.
2. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can increase the risk of motion sickness, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and during your flight.
3. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you and make motion sickness worse, so it’s best to avoid them before and during your flight.
4. Eat Light Meals
Eating light meals before and during your flight can help prevent motion sickness. Avoid eating heavy, greasy, or spicy foods, as they can increase the risk of motion sickness.
5. Use Medication
If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider using medication to prevent it. There are several over-the-counter and prescription medications available that can help prevent motion sickness.
6. Use Acupressure
Acupressure can also help prevent motion sickness. There are several pressure points on the body that can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, such as the P6 point located on the wrist.
7. Try Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can help prevent motion sickness. Take deep breaths and exhale slowly, focusing on your breath and relaxing your body.
8. Keep a Positive Attitude
Keeping a positive attitude can also help prevent motion sickness. Try to stay calm and relaxed, and avoid dwelling on the possibility of getting sick. Remember that motion sickness is a common experience and that it will eventually pass.
9. Use Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as peppermint, ginger, and lavender, can also help prevent motion sickness. Apply a few drops to a tissue or handkerchief and inhale the scent when you feel nauseous.
10. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help prevent motion sickness. Avoid tight clothing that can restrict your movement and make you feel uncomfortable.
11. Use a Neck Pillow
Using a neck pillow can also help prevent motion sickness. It can help support your head and neck, reducing the risk of experiencing motion sickness.
12. Take Breaks
Taking breaks during your flight can also help prevent motion sickness. Get up and walk around the cabin, stretch your legs, and take a few deep breaths.
13. Avoid Strong Smells
Strong smells, such as perfumes, colognes, and food odors, can also trigger motion sickness. Avoid sitting near people who are wearing strong scents, and avoid eating foods with strong odors.
14. Talk to Your Doctor
If you are prone to motion sickness, talk to your doctor before your flight. They may recommend medication or other treatments that can help prevent motion sickness.
Conclusion
Motion sickness can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, but there are several effective ways to prevent it while traveling by airplane. By choosing the right seat, staying hydrated, eating light meals, and using medication or other treatments, you can reduce your risk of experiencing motion sickness and enjoy a comfortable flight.
FAQs
- Is motion sickness common when flying?
Yes, motion sickness is a common experience when flying, especially if you are sensitive to motion.
- Can I prevent motion sickness without medication?
Yes, there are several non-medical ways to prevent motion sickness, such as choosing the right seat, staying hydrated, and using acupressure or essential oils.
- What is the best medication for motion sickness?
There are several medications available for motion sickness, including antihistamines and anti-nausea medications. Talk to your doctor about which medication is right for you.
- Can anxiety and stress cause motion sickness?
Yes, anxiety and stress can increase the risk of motion sickness by disrupting the signals sent to the brain by the eyes, inner ear, and other sensory organs.
- How long does motion sickness last?
The duration of motion sickness can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the symptoms. It usually lasts for a few hours but can persist for several days in some cases.