Motion Sickness

Nausea and dizziness during travel by car, bus, boat or plane, caused by mixed signals to the brain about movement.

TravelLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, pale skin and headache during travel.

Common Treatments

Looking at the horizon, sitting in the front, fresh air, avoiding reading, and medicines taken before travel.

Risk Factors

Children aged 2–12, pregnancy, migraine and winding roads.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Motion sickness happens when the eyes, inner ear and body send conflicting signals about movement.

It's common and harmless, and usually settles when the motion stops.

Symptoms

Nausea

And vomiting.

Dizziness

And headache.

Sweating

Cold sweat.

Pale skin

Feeling unwell.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Mismatch between visual and balance signals.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Children.
  • Pregnancy and migraine Increase sensitivity.
  • Travel conditions Winding roads and rough seas.

Management & Treatment

01. Positioning

Front seat, looking ahead.

02. Habits

Fresh air, light meals, no reading.

03. Medicines

Antihistamines such as cinnarizine or promethazine before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can children take travel sickness medicine?
Some are suitable; check the age limit with a pharmacist.
Does ginger help?
Some people find it helpful.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.