Car-sickness

Car-sickness

Car-sickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common condition that occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear, eyes, and deeper body parts. This condition is particularly prevalent in children and can affect individuals of all ages. It is a type of motion sickness that specifically occurs when traveling in a car.

Causes

Car-sickness is caused by a sensory conflict between the vestibular system (inner ear) and visual inputs. When a person is in a moving vehicle, the inner ear senses motion, but if the person is reading or looking at a stationary object inside the car, the eyes send a signal to the brain that there is no movement. This mismatch can lead to symptoms of motion sickness.

Symptoms

The symptoms of car-sickness can vary in severity and may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Pallor (paleness)
• Increased salivation
• Headache

Prevention

Several strategies can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of car-sickness:

• Positioning: Sitting in the front seat or looking out the window at the horizon can help align the visual and vestibular inputs.
• Ventilation: Ensuring good ventilation in the car can help reduce symptoms.
• Avoiding reading: Reading or focusing on a stationary object inside the car should be avoided.
• Ginger: Consuming ginger in various forms (tea, candies) is a traditional remedy that may help alleviate symptoms.
• Medication: Over-the-counter medications such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine can be used to prevent motion sickness.

Treatment

If symptoms occur, the following measures can be taken:

• Stop the vehicle: Taking a break and getting out of the car can help.
• Fresh air: Breathing fresh air can alleviate symptoms.
• Hydration: Drinking water can help reduce nausea.
• Acupressure: Applying pressure to certain points on the wrist may provide relief.

Also see

• Motion sickness
• Vestibular system
• Nausea
• Travel sickness