Battling Motion Sickness: Why It Happens & How to Beat It

Whether you’re stuck in stop-start bus traffic, cruising at sea, or soaring through turbulence at 30,000 feet, motion sickness can strike even the most seasoned traveller. The culprit? A sensory “mismatch” between what your inner ear—and other balance sensors—detect and what your eyes perceive.

Our vestibular system (inner ears, eyes, and proprioceptors in neck and spine) constantly sends the brain data about movement and position. When you read a book on a bumpy bus or gaze at an in-flight entertainment screen, your eyes tell your brain “we’re stationary,” while your inner ears scream “we’re moving!” This conflict leads to nausea, dizziness, and headaches.

Common Triggers & Risk Factors For Motion Sickness

Repetitive, jarring motion: Bumpy roads, rough seas, turbulence

Visual reliance: Focusing on screens or books instead of the horizon

Migraines: Those prone to migraine often have heightened susceptibility

Diet & lifestyle: MSG, caffeine, alcohol, cheese, chocolate; dehydration; stress; lack of sleep

Practical Prevention Tips

Fix your gaze outside: Look at stationary objects—trees, buildings, the horizon—to restore sensory harmony.

Choose your seat strategically: Front passenger seat in cars; lower deck or mid-ship on boats; window seat on planes.

Avoid close-up visuals: Ditch the novel, phone, or tablet when in motion.

Stay hydrated & rested: Dehydration and fatigue worsen symptoms.

Light, balanced meals: Eat lightly before travel; avoid heavy, trigger-laden foods.

Natural remedies: Sip ginger water pre-trip; try acupressure wrist bands.

Medication & Follow-Up

For persistent sufferers, anti-nausea agents like prochlorperazine can provide relief.

Motion sickness need not derail your journeys. With simple awareness and these practical steps, you can keep nausea at bay and focus on the adventure ahead.

If you’re still experiencing motion-related symptoms despite these tips, please call us to schedule a comprehensive vestibular assessment and personalized treatment plan. Safe travels!

This blog content is based on the original article “Is motion sickness preventable?” by Dr Ho Eu Chin, which appeared in the Mind & Body (“DocTalk”) section of The Straits Times on August 1, 2017.

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