What Is Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness is a common condition that happens when your brain receives conflicting signals about movement. It can occur during car rides, boat trips, flights, or even while using virtual reality. While motion sickness is uncomfortable, it's harmless and usually goes away once the motion stops.

What Causes Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness happens when your eyes, inner ear, and body send mixed messages to your brain. For example, when riding in a car, your eyes may see the inside of the vehicle (staying still), but your inner ear senses movement. This mismatch confuses your brain and triggers symptoms.

Some people are more prone to motion sickness than others. Children ages 2 to 12, pregnant women, and people who get migraines are more likely to experience it. Being tired, anxious, or reading while moving can make symptoms worse.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can appear quickly or build up over time. Common signs include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, cold sweats, and pale skin. You may also feel tired, have a headache, or notice increased saliva in your mouth. Most symptoms go away within 24 hours after the motion stops.

Treatment Options

Over-the-counter antihistamines like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and meclizine (Bonine) are effective for preventing and treating motion sickness. Scopolamine patches, worn behind the ear, are another popular option. These medications work best when taken before travel begins.

Does Zofran Help with Motion Sickness?

While Zofran (ondansetron) is excellent for treating nausea from chemotherapy or surgery, research shows it does not help with motion sickness. Studies found that Zofran was no more effective than a placebo for preventing motion sickness symptoms. Stick with proven options like antihistamines or scopolamine instead.

Prevention Tips

Try sitting in the front seat of a car or the middle of a boat where motion is less intense. Look at the horizon or a distant point instead of reading. Fresh air helps, so open a window when possible. Ginger tea or ginger candies may help settle your stomach. Being the driver rather than a passenger often reduces symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Motion sickness is not dangerous and rarely requires medical attention. However, see a doctor if symptoms continue long after motion has stopped, or if you suddenly develop motion sickness without any obvious trigger. These could be signs of an inner ear problem that needs evaluation.