Motion sickness

Tips for preventing motion sickness

Medications: If you want to use them, plan ahead and take them before you feel sick. Medication takes time to work, and it is harder to control motion sickness once it begins. Be aware that some cause drowsiness.

Location: Sit in the most stable area of the vehicle, for example the front of a train or car, or the middle of a boat or airplane.

Visual signals: Minimize confusing or moving imagery. Sit where you can anticipate motion, and look in the direction of travel. On a boat, look at the horizon or land rather than the water. Avoid reading or watching video.

Head position: Keep your head as still as possible.

Fresh air: Stay on deck if on a ship, keep windows open, or take other steps to assure proper ventilation. Avoid stale or offensive odors.

Food: Eat a light meal about 3 hours before traveling. Avoid large, high-calorie or fatty meals, dairy products, high-salt or high-protein foods.

The mind: Keep yourself mentally occupied.

Acupressure has been shown to help some people. Measure 2 thumb-widths in from the main crease on the inner wrist. Press on the point between the two tendons, deeply but carefully, with a knuckle, fingertip or pencil eraser. Feel for the most tender spot. It is normal to feel a strong sensation in your wrist and arm. Stimulate the point for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat on the opposite arm, and as often as necessary.

LABEL:
Width of 2 thumbs in from main crease

Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd

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Acupressure for motion sickness
Here are lists of acupressure points for Motion sickness and Sea sickness on PointFinder.org.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.

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