Car sickness

Car sickness is a type of motion sickness that is specifically triggered by the movement of a vehicle. It is a common condition that affects many people, particularly children and those who are prone to nausea and vomiting.

Causes

Car sickness, like all forms of motion sickness, is caused by a conflict between the sensory systems of the body. The inner ear, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation, sends signals to the brain that are inconsistent with the signals being sent by the eyes. This sensory mismatch can lead to feelings of nausea, dizziness, and discomfort.

Symptoms

The symptoms of car sickness can vary from person to person, but they typically include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• A general feeling of discomfort

Prevention and Treatment

There are several strategies that can be used to prevent or treat car sickness. These include:

• Sitting in the front seat of the car, where the motion is less pronounced and the view of the road is unobstructed.
• Avoiding reading or looking at a screen while in the car, as this can exacerbate the sensory mismatch.
• Taking over-the-counter medication such as Dramamine or Bonine, which can help to reduce the symptoms of motion sickness.
• Using ginger or other natural remedies, which some people find helpful in reducing nausea.

See Also

• Motion sickness
• Sea sickness
• Air sickness