Why Does Motion Sickness Happen and What Can be Done?

QUESTION: We are off again, traveling to visit our family, but that means I
must put up with all the discomforts of motion sickness that have plagued me
for years. Why does this happen, and is there really anything one can do
about it to prevent this annoying and sometimes embarrassing state of affairs?
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ANSWER: When the discomfort of nausea and even vomiting strike during a
voyage, all the pleasure that is possible from a visit with loved ones may be
totally destroyed. It occurs when the body clues that keep us oriented in
space and our senses of balance become confused, when our eyes tell us nothing
is moving but the delicate mechanism of the inner ear (also called the
labyrinth) knows better as it perceives the motion of the plane or vehicle we
are riding in. Each sends different messages to the brain, a conflicting
story which can not be coordinated in a sensible way. That results in the
feelings of queasiness that may progress to a true motion sickness. "Motion
sickness" is the single term that incorporates "sea sickness", "air sickness"
and "car sickness," as they are all the result of the same mechanisms. A
knowledge of these mechanisms provide us with some action guidelines that may
prevent the sickness from occurring. Sit in a seat where your eyes can
observe the motion that your body is feeling. That means a window seat in a
plane or car. Looking at the passing scenery while you travel will prevent
conflict in the messages being sent to your brain. Don't read as you travel,
and sit in a seat that is facing the direction of travel. Eating before a
trip is unwise, particularly heavy, greasy or spicy food. If someone near you
is being sick, try to change your seat, for the stimulation of such an
experience may provoke the same condition in your delicate system. There are
many over-the-counter medications which are effective if taken properly and
with sufficient time before your trip starts. Ask your physician or
pharmacist for advice. With all these precautions your trip should be a
pleasant one. Enjoy!