TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Year-end holidays are often a time for long-distance travel, but they can also be marred by feelings of nausea and dizziness caused by motion sickness.
Many people take advantage of the year-end holiday period to travel long distances, either returning to their hometowns or going on vacations to tourist destinations. Extended journeys using various modes of transportation such as cars, buses, trains, planes, and ships are inevitable. In such situations, the risk of motion sickness tends to increase, especially for those sensitive to changes in motion, fatigue, or crowded and unpredictable travel conditions.
In addition to longer travel durations, year-end holidays are often characterized by tightly packed travel schedules, lack of rest, and changes in eating habits. All of these factors exacerbate symptoms of motion sickness. It is not uncommon for travelers to push themselves to embark on a journey even when their bodies are not fully fit, resulting in excessive feelings of nausea and dizziness during the trip. Therefore, understanding the causes and ways to anticipate motion sickness is essential to ensure that holiday moments remain comfortable and undisturbed.
How to Prevent Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a condition frequently experienced by tourists and travelers when the brain receives different signals from the body's senses regarding motion. The mismatch between what the eyes see and what the inner ear feels can cause symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, and even vomiting.
According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the most effective ways to prevent motion sickness is to choose the most stable seat in the vehicle. The location varies depending on the mode of transportation. Travelers can sit in the front seat of a car, the middle section of a ship, and the wing seats when flying on a plane to reduce the body's perceived movements.
As an alternative to preventing motion sickness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers avoid activities that worsen sensory conflicts, such as reading books or staring at gadget screens while traveling. Instead, focus the gaze on stable objects in the distance, such as the horizon, to help the eyes and ears respond to movements more synchronously.
Furthermore, fatigue worsens the symptoms of motion sickness. Therefore, sufficient rest before traveling is highly recommended. The CDC also emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated during the journey and limiting the consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which can exacerbate feelings of nausea.
From a medical perspective, the Cleveland Clinic offers practical tips for avoiding motion sickness while traveling. First, turn on the face ventilation or open a window to get some fresh air, if possible. Second, bring and enjoy ginger drinks because of their calming effects on the stomach.
People suggest that travelers anticipate motion sickness when using airplanes by avoiding the rear seats, as turbulence tends to be felt more strongly. Instead, choose more stable seats, such as those in the middle or by the wings, to reduce the sensation of movement.
Do not underestimate motion sickness, as it can make your vacation miserable. Prepare contingency plans, especially for long journeys. Carrying vomit bags, tissues, water, and easily digestible snacks can help if symptoms of motion sickness suddenly appear. With proper preparation and strategies, year-end holiday travels can remain comfortable and enjoyable.
Hesti Dwi Ariani contributed to this article
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