What to do if you get airsick?

According to statistics, over 66% of people worldwide suffer from motion sickness. A person starts to feel nauseous because conflicting signals are sent to the central nervous system from the body (from the eyes, vestibular apparatus, and muscles).

Susceptibility to motion sickness is increased by fatigue, stress, and anxiety, as well as the consumption of alcohol, drugs, and certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, painkillers, hormonal drugs, etc.). Women (especially during pregnancy) and children aged 2 to 12 years are more prone to motion sickness. Currently, there are several ways to combat airsickness. The most common method is medical remedies for motion sickness. They can be bought at any pharmacy, but keep in mind that many of them cause drowsiness. Most remedies contain:

• meclizine
• dimenhydrinate
• diphenhydramine
• scopolamine

The method of use is written on the packaging or in the leaflet. As a rule, motion sickness remedies are taken 15–20 minutes before departure. Another effective way to combat motion sickness is choosing the right seat on the plane. You’ll feel the least motion sickness in seats near the wing and in the front part of the cabin. While sitting on the plane, try to focus your gaze on some distant, stationary object.

Remember that reading exacerbates motion sickness.

During turbulence, rest your head on the back of the seat and try to keep it still, direct the fan’s airflow onto your face. Folk remedies are also very popular. Even in ancient times, sailors used ginger as a remedy for motion sickness. Before your trip, stock up on ginger candies or cookies. Keep in mind that the effect of ginger is short-lived, and to avoid dizziness and nausea, you will have to consume it every 20–30 minutes. An effective way to combat airsickness is aromatherapy. The aromas of ginger, mint, and lavender help to cope with dizziness. Essential oils can be inhaled, for example, by dropping them onto a napkin or handkerchief, or by rubbing them into the temples and back of the neck. Pay attention to your diet. Before traveling, do not overeat, avoid fatty foods and alcohol, as well as salty and dairy products. Opt for light, low-calorie meals. Crackers and unsweetened carbonated drinks, as well as sour candies or lemon, help to cope with nausea during the flight.