Carsickness can turn an extended road trip into an excruciating experience. More than one third of the population experiences some form of motion sickness. The good news? There are proven methods to prevent it, or at least lessen the severity.
What Causes Carsickness
Carsickness is caused by a disconnect between what you see (the inside of the car, which appears still) and what your body feels (the forward motion of the vehicle). This conflict triggers a neurotransmitter imbalance that your system mistakes for something similar to poisoning — resulting in dizziness, fatigue, and nausea.
Steps to Avoid It
- Look out the window and focus on a non-moving object on the horizon
- Sit in the front seat — drivers rarely get carsick because they're focused on the road
- Close your eyes or try to sleep if you can't look outside
- Open the window for fresh, cool air — certain smells like air fresheners and smoke can worsen nausea
- Pull over for a break — walking or sitting under a tree helps your mind reconnect with your body
Preventative Measures
If you suffer from intense carsickness, consider over-the-counter medications that suppress nausea. Ginger has also been proven to help — try ginger capsules or sipping ginger ale. Chewing on fresh mint can calm your senses and freshen your breath. Take these measures before your trip begins for best results.
With the right preparation, carsickness doesn't have to ruin your road trip. Know your triggers and have remedies ready before you hit the road.
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