Motion Sickness Treatment

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness occurs when conflicting signals are sent to the brain from the body’s sensory organs. Common situations that trigger motion sickness include traveling by car, boat, airplane, or train or riding on an amusement park ride.. If you think you suffer from motion sickness, read on to learn about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment.  


What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

The following symptoms are most common:
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting

Other symptoms include:
  • Sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Shortness of breath


What can you do to help prevent motion sickness? 

There are several things you can do to decrease your chances of suffering from motion sickness. These include: 

  •  Avoid sitting in the back seat of a car
  • Avoid reading or looking at your phone 
  • Take occasional breaks
  • Chew gum 
  • Try to look in the direction you are traveling
  • Focus on distant objects, such as the horizon  
  • Eat a light meal before you travel  
  • Keep water nearby for hydration. For example, take small sips.  


How is motion sickness treated? 

  • Over the counter medication (Dramamine)
  • Prescription medication (Meclizine pills or Scopolamine patches)
  • Acupressure bands (Sea-Band wrist band)
  • Natural remedies (ginger, peppermint, etc.)


Patient First treats many conditions at our urgent care centers including motion sickness. You can visit any Patient First center from 8am to 8pm, any day of the week – no appointment is needed