Motion sickness

Motion sickness is a condition in which a disagreement exists between visually perceived movement and the vestibular system's sense of movement. Depending on the cause, it can also be referred to as seasickness, carsickness, simulation sickness or airsickness.

Causes

Motion sickness is caused by a conflict between different sensory inputs to the brain. The most common hypothesis for the cause of motion sickness is that it functions as a defense mechanism against neurotoxins. The area postrema in the brain is responsible for inducing vomiting when poisons are detected, and for resolving conflicts between vision and balance. When feeling motion but not seeing it (for example, in a ship with no windows), the inner ear transmits to the brain that it senses motion, but the eyes tell the brain that everything is still. As a result of the discordance, the brain will come to the conclusion that one of them is hallucinating and further conclude that the hallucination is due to poison ingestion. The brain responds by inducing vomiting, to clear the supposed toxin.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea, which may progress to vomiting. Symptoms can also become progressively worse if the motion causing them continues. Prolonged symptoms have been associated with changes in balance and cognitive function.

Treatment

Treatment for motion sickness can include over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as home remedies and behavioral changes. Some people find relief from symptoms through certain physical activities or by adjusting their diet.

See also

• Mal de debarquement
• Spatial disorientation
• Vertigo

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Motion Sickness

Motion sickness Resources
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