Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Causes of motion sickness: mixed signals from the inner ear, eyes and body, common triggers and who is more likely to get it.
Motion sickness happens when the brain gets mixed signals about movement. It is not an infection and not a sign of weakness.
What happens in the body
Movement is sensed by three systems: the inner ear (balance), the eyes and the body's position sensors in muscles and joints. When they disagree, the brain reacts with nausea, dizziness and sweating. Inside a car, the eyes see a still cabin while the inner ear feels the motion. On a ship, the opposite can occur.
Common situations
Who is more likely to get it
What makes it worse
Ayurvedic view
Ayurveda links dizziness and nausea with aggravated Vata and Pitta. This is a traditional framework and not a medical diagnosis.
Key point
Motion sickness is a mismatch of signals. Most people get used to motion with time.
Remember
Most motion sickness is mild and passes once the movement stops. Plan ahead, stay hydrated and see a doctor if symptoms are severe or last more than a day.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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