Motion sickness relief: practical ways to feel better

Motion sickness can cause nausea, dizziness, sweating, headache and vomiting during travel. Looking at a stable distant point helps the eyes and inner ear receive more consistent information. Sitting near the front of a car, over the wings of an aircraft or near the centre of a boat may reduce perceived movement, although comfort differs between people.

Fresh air, calm breathing and a supported head may settle symptoms. Strong smells, alcohol, dehydration, exhaustion and a large meal can make travel harder for some people.

Before leaving, eat a light meal, drink normally and choose a seat with a clear outside view. During the journey, face forward, keep your gaze on the horizon, avoid reading or screens, and take breaks in fresh air when safe. If symptoms start, stop visual tasks, recline or keep your head still, and sip fluids.

A pharmacist can discuss preventive medicines and explain possible drowsiness, dry mouth or blurred vision. Take only as directed and check before use if you are pregnant, treating a chronic condition or taking other medicines. A travel health consultation may be useful for a demanding itinerary.

Seek care if symptoms are new outside travel, persist after movement stops, or recur despite sensible changes. Get urgent help for fainting, severe headache, confusion, weakness, trouble breathing, blood in vomit or inability to retain fluids.

Ask which prevention option fits your health history, when to use it, and what to do if vomiting prevents you from keeping medicine or fluids down. Mention any dizziness that occurs while still.