Motion Sickness:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, June 18 and October 22, 2005
Show 217

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

For people who get motion sickness, long trips of any kind can be torture. Here's some information on the best ways to treat it.  

Allison Scott, PharmD, RPh:

Any type of transportation can cause motion sickness—plane, train, car, ship. The best thing you can do is plan ahead. If you're going on a cruise ship, you can ask to have a cabin in the middle of the ship near the water line. If flying, ask for a seat over the front edge of the wing and keep the air vent on your face. If you're on a train, sit by the window and face forward. And if you're in the car, sit in the front seat. Here are some other things you can do if you are experiencing motion sickness. Focus on the horizon. Keep your head still. Avoid overeating and spicy foods. Avoid alcohol and don't smoke. You can also eat dry crackers or a carbonated beverage like ginger ale or Sprite; it'll help settle the stomach. There are also over the counter medications used to help prevent motion sickness—Antivert, Dramamine, and there's also a prescription medication patch prescribed by your doctor, worn behind your ear. However, if you have any problems such as asthma, urinary conditions or glaucoma, you need to ask your doctor before taking any medications. Remember, the best way to prevent motion sickness is to plan ahead.