For many people, taking long flights, road trips and travelling in a train or bus can be a pleasant experience. However, for those who suffer from motion sickness, such journeys can be a nightmare. The dizziness, constant nausea and the inability to see the screen in a moving vehicle can be quite terrifying.

But like everything else, there is a solution for it on social media. Many Instagram users have shared ways to deal with motion sickness like smelling lemon juice, drinking chamomile tea, using a glass filled with liquid, and many other simple tricks.

But do these hacks really work? Let’s find out from the experts.

Why does motion sickness happen?

Dr Manjunath MK, Senior Consultant, ENT Surgeon, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, explains, “Motion sickness occurs when there is a discrepancy between the motion perceived by our senses, such as vision, hearing and body position, and the actual movement.” india today,

Further, Dr. Pramod V. Satya, Consultant, Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, explains, “Normally, motion is perceived by the brain through one of three sensory signals, either visual which is through the eyes or somatosensory through the nerves or the vestibular system.”

Therefore, these three sensory signals must be in sync to accurately perceive motion. When these three sensory signals are not in sync, the result is motion sickness.

On the other hand, Mumbai-based senior physician and critical care specialist Dr. Ruhi Pirzada says, “Motion sickness occurs when the movement you see around you is different from what your inner ear senses. Therefore, you can get motion sickness while traveling in a car, train, plane, boat and sometimes even during a trip to an amusement park.”

“It occurs when your eyes and inner ears send conflicting messages to your brain. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, cold sweats, drooling, headache, drowsiness, and spatial disorientation,” she adds.

Let’s talk about hacks

Dr. Pirzada believes that social media hacks like smelling lemon juice before travelling can help a person distract themselves from these conflicting signals sent to the brain. Although these hacks are not a cure for motion sickness, they won’t cause any harm either.

Doctors advise that you can try these measures, but if motion sickness persists, you may need medication.

Dr Manjunath MK agrees that a variety of measures can be effective in reducing motion sickness. But for those looking for effective ways to deal with motion sickness, taking medication before travel is an important tip. By taking medication before departure, one can preempt the symptoms and enjoy a smooth travel experience.

Meanwhile, Dr Satya says, “Motion sickness is a huge problem, especially if it is recurrent in people who are prone to it. The best way is to prevent it rather than treat it.”

Expert-recommended hacks

Not all hacks you see on Instagram will work. However, you may want to consider trying these expert-approved hacks to avoid motion sickness.

• Pleasant scents or attractive visual stimuli may help ease symptoms.
• Taking short breaks while traveling can be beneficial.
• Choosing the right seat is important. In a car, sit in the front seat or drive if possible. On a bus, sit near the front and avoid seats over the wheels. On a plane, choose a seat over the wings. On a boat, stay in the middle and lower levels where the motion is less intense.
• Taking breaks from reading can be helpful because the visual cues and the sensory cues of movement will not be present simultaneously while you are reading. Instead, keep looking out at the horizon.
• Chewing ginger candy can prove to be a good solution.
• Acupressure can also help with motion sickness. There is a point on the wrist called P6 and applying pressure to that point helps reduce motion sickness in some circumstances. You can also wear acupressure wristbands. These bands apply pressure to specific points on your wrist, which can help reduce nausea.
• Try lying down, sleeping, and drinking plenty of water while traveling.
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake may also be beneficial. While travelling, drink cold water or ginger ale intermittently.
• Getting some fresh air can also help. If possible, open a window or use an air vent to get some fresh air. If you’re on a boat, stay on the deck where you can enjoy the breeze.

In addition to these expert-approved hacks, be sure to eat a light meal or snack before and during your trip. Avoid greasy, spicy, or heavy foods that could upset your stomach.

Also, you can rely on aromatherapy to deal with motion sickness. Smell fresh scents like lemon or mint, which can help reduce nausea. You can keep essential oils with you.

Further, talking about precautions, Dr. Manjunath MK says that individuals experiencing motion sickness should consider consulting a vertigo specialist for personalized advice and suggestions. These specialists can give customized recommendations based on individual needs and medical history.

“It is important to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if there is an underlying dizziness issue contributing to the symptoms. Seeking professional guidance can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan,” the doctor said.