Feeling sick when traveling, which can range from a slight malaise, to vomiting that can end a trip plan, can happen in different transports . However, it is not due to the transport itself – either a car, plane, boat, train, bus or other –, but rather to movement. The correct term that defines this malaise is motion sickness . This condition occurs when our balance control mechanisms are overstimulated and/or our brain receives contradictory information about the movements of our surroundings. Motion sickness is not a disease and can be induced in almost everyone; It is very common, but some people are more sensitive than others; It is more frequent in children, women, pregnant women and people with headaches; It happens with movements such as accelerating, braking, bending, and swaying (typical of transports); It can also happen when wheeling, doing somersaults or riding a carousel; Getting used to movement can reduce the frequency of the problem. Most common symptoms Usually, motion sickness sets in suddenly : It can remain only as a feeling of general malaise and some abdominal discomfort and not progress to other symptoms; More or less quickly, paleness and cold sweats, headache, hyperventilation, dizziness and vomiting may follow; When severe, these symptoms can lead to other problems, for example dehydration (caused by vomiting) and fainting (caused by hyperventilation); When travel and movement are over, symptoms resolve more or less quickly. Prevent travel sickness For the most sensitive people, some precautions before and during the trip reduce the perception of movement and the probability of more disturbing symptoms of motion sickness. Before the trip Do not eat large amounts of food, which are difficult to digest or have a strong odor or taste; Do not drink alcoholic beverages; Do not use perfumes, creams, or other products with a strong odor. Location and position during travel Choose the most forward seats in any transport, always complying with safety rules, especially for children; Traveling facing the direction of travel, if possible near an opening window, in order to get some fresh air; Staying still during the journey, leaning back in a comfortable, slightly leaning-back position; Always look straight ahead, and keep your eyes on the horizon, do not focus on nearby objects. Avoid stimuli while traveling Do not read, do not use mobile phones, tablets, computers or game consoles, as they require concentration and/or gaze on movements, points close to and deviating from the direction of travel; Do not eat, drink alcoholic beverages, smoke or be exposed to tobacco smoke; Do not sleep; Do not use strong odor air fresheners in the car. Medicines to prevent motion sickness There are several over-the-counter medications to prevent motion sickness. However, these medicines can have side effects and their indications depend on age. If you are traveling and someone in your family has motion sickness problems: Talk to your doctor before taking or giving any medication; Always read carefully the information on the package leaflet of the medications that are indicated to you; Take or give medications only if are prescribed and always as advised by the doctor. Author : Daniel Berão Meet the general and family medicine team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
