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Motion sickness

Motion sickness occurs when the eyes, balance organs and body-position senses send conflicting information about movement. Looking ahead, fresh air and a position with less movement often help. Medicines work best when taken beforehand, but can cause drowsiness and unsafe driving.

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Motion sickness occurs when the eyes, balance organs and body-position senses send conflicting information about movement. Looking ahead, fresh air and a position with less movement often help. Medicines work best when taken beforehand, but can cause drowsiness and unsafe driving.

  • Yawning, turning pale, cold sweats and extra saliva are often early signs.
  • Nausea, an unsettled stomach and vomiting during movement.
  • Look ahead at the horizon or a fixed point and keep your head and body as still as possible.
  • Avoid reading and screens; close your eyes or try to sleep if you cannot look outside.
  • Make an appointment for repeatedly severe symptoms, new motion sickness later in life or symptoms lasting long after the journey.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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