How to make flying more comfortable for motion sickness sufferers

How to make flying more comfortable for motion sickness sufferers

Understanding Motion Sickness and Its Causes

Before we delve into how to make flying more comfortable for motion sickness sufferers, it's essential to understand what motion sickness is and its causes. Motion sickness is a common condition that occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ears, and body regarding motion and balance. This confusion can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and cold sweats. It's essential to know the triggers of motion sickness to better address and manage it during flights.

Choosing the Right Seat

One of the first steps to making flying more comfortable for motion sickness sufferers is choosing the right seat. It's generally recommended to choose a seat over the wings of the plane, as this area experiences less motion during turbulence. Additionally, booking a window seat can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms, as it allows you to focus on a fixed point outside the plane, which can help stabilize the brain's perception of motion. If possible, avoid sitting in the last rows of the plane, as they tend to experience more movement and can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.

Preparing for the Flight

Preparation is key when it comes to managing motion sickness during flights. Some helpful tips for preparing for your flight include:

Eating lightly:

Consume a light meal before your flight, avoiding heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that might upset your stomach. Eating too much or too little can make motion sickness worse, so aim for a small, balanced meal.

Staying hydrated:

Drink plenty of water before and during your flight, as dehydration can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and worsen symptoms.

Getting enough rest:

Ensure you get a good night's sleep before your flight, as fatigue can make motion sickness worse.

Using Medication and Natural Remedies

There are several over-the-counter medications and natural remedies available that can help reduce motion sickness symptoms. Some popular options include:

Antihistamines:

Antihistamines such as Dramamine and Bonine can help prevent nausea and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It's essential to take these medications as directed, usually about an hour before your flight.

Ginger:

Ginger is a natural remedy that has been shown to help reduce motion sickness symptoms. You can consume ginger in various forms, such as ginger candies, ginger tea, or ginger supplements, to help alleviate nausea and discomfort during your flight.

Acupressure wristbands:

Wearing acupressure wristbands can help reduce motion sickness symptoms by applying pressure to specific points on the wrist. These wristbands are available at most drugstores and can be a drug-free option for managing motion sickness during flights.

Practicing Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques can be beneficial in managing motion sickness symptoms during flights. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and visualization can help calm the mind and body, reducing the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness symptoms. By focusing on your breath and maintaining a calm state of mind, you can help minimize the anxiety and discomfort often associated with motion sickness.

Staying Occupied and Distracted

Keeping your mind occupied and distracted during your flight can help prevent motion sickness symptoms from becoming overwhelming. Engage in activities that require focus and concentration, such as reading, playing games, or watching movies. Avoid activities that involve a lot of head movement or staring at a screen for extended periods, as they can worsen motion sickness symptoms. Listening to music or podcasts can also be a helpful distraction, especially if they are calming and relaxing.

Communicating with Flight Crew

Finally, don't hesitate to communicate with the flight crew about your motion sickness concerns. They are trained to assist passengers with various needs and can provide additional support, such as providing extra air sickness bags or adjusting the air conditioning to help you feel more comfortable. If you're feeling particularly unwell, notify a flight attendant so they can keep an eye on you and provide assistance if needed.

By understanding the causes of motion sickness and implementing these strategies, you can make flying a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Remember that everyone's experience with motion sickness is different, so it's essential to find the methods that work best for you and be prepared for your next flight.