Many American families will travel by car this
summer, logging over 1.4 trillion miles. During these trips, an estimated one out of five
children will experience some form of car sickness. This uncomfortable condition has a
definitie pattern of symptoms. First, the child becomes pale, followed by yawning,
restlessness, lightheadedness, a cold sweat and an upset stomach. Unless the cycle is
interrupted, the condition then proceeds to vomiting. Many times the symptoms do not
always run their full course. Most older children and adults will instinctively lie down
with their eyes closed, which often stabilizes the condition. If the parents experienced
motion sickness when they were young, then their children are more susceptible. The
condition generally lessens as the child grows older.
Motion sickness occurs when the brain is unable to
process the conflicting messages it receives about the body's position and movement
through space. The inner ear, which regulates balance, contains several complex structures
that tell the brain which direction the body is moving. The brain also receives signals
from the eyes, body hair and sensors in the muscles. When a susceptible child is sitting
in the back seat of a moving car, the inner ear senses motion while the eyes, seeing only
the inside of the car, detect none. The brain does not know what to make of the confusing
messages and the symptoms of motion sickness result.
What can parents do for motion sickness? The
following advice that applies to children is also valid for adults (the one exception is
that adults who are prone to car sickness should travel in the front seat of the car,
which is not safe for children at any time).
1. Elevate your child with an approved car seat so
they can look out the window and see the direction they are traveling. This allows the
child's eyes to see the motion that the inner ear is feeling. Motion sickness can be
reduced by traveling at night when visual stimulation is reduced.
2. Do not allow the child to read or play games
while traveling. Instead, have them focus on things outside the car - traffic, billboards,
signs, etc.
3. Avoid strong odors, such as smoking, in the
car.
4.The youngster should not be given spicy or
greasy foods immediately before and during travel.
5.Give your child one of the many motion sickness
medicines before travel begins, as recommended by your physician. Since it is easier to
prevent motion sickness than it is to stop it, medication should be given 30 to 60 minutes
before travel and continued during the trip. Some of these medications can be purchased
without prescription and are generally safe for children two years and older. Examples
include Marezine®, Dramamine®, Benadryl®, and Bonine®. Check labels carefully for
dosages, precautions and age restrictions. Adolescents over the age of twelve may take a
prescription drug such as scopolamine (Transderm-Scop®) if the over-the-counter
medications are not effective.-
6. Good ventilation and loose comfortable clothing
can also help. Keep fresh air flowing.
7. Stop frequently while traveling so the child
can get out and walk around. Know the early warning signs of motion sickenss and stop the
car at the first sign of a problem.
8. If the child does become sick while traveling, have the
youngster lie down. If they have vomited, offer cool water and a light snack, such as
crackers, pretzels, or a popsicle. An attack of motion sickness in the back seat during a
vacation can be extremely unpleasant for everyone. Remember, it is not the child's fault
and the youngster cannot help it. Getting upset or angry only makes matters worse.
