Medical Edge Newspaper Column

Remedies for Motion Sickness

December 24, 2007
Readers:
Any type of transportation can cause motion sickness, which can strike suddenly, progressing from a feeling of uneasiness to a cold sweat, dizziness and then vomiting. Motion sickness may quiet down as soon as the motion stops.

You may escape motion sickness by planning ahead. When traveling, reserve seats where motion is felt least. By ship, request a cabin in the forward or middle of the ship, or on the upper deck. By plane, ask for a seat over the front edge of a wing. Once aboard, direct the air vent to your face. By train, take a seat near the front and next to a window. Face forward. By automobile, drive or sit in the front passenger's seat.

If you are susceptible to motion sickness, focus on the horizon or on a distant, stationary object. Don't read. Keep your head still and resting against a headrest. Don't smoke or sit near smokers. Avoid spicy foods and alcohol, and don't overeat.

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine such as meclizine (Antivert, Bonine) or one containing dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) before you feel sick  you can expect drowsiness as a side effect. You might consider scopolamine (Transderm Scop), available in a prescription adhesive patch. Several hours before you plan to travel, apply the patch behind your ear for 72 hours of protection. But talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have health problems, such as asthma, glaucoma or urine retention.

Finally, if you become ill, consider a snack of dry crackers or drink a carbonated beverage to help settle your stomach.

— MayoClinic.com