How to treat travel sickness

Many children suffer from travel sickness when traveling, especially during long journeys in the car, on a plane or on a boat. It is most common in children aged between 3 and 12, but occasionally it can continue into adulthood. Here’s how to cope.

Keep still

Choose a seat in the middle of a plane or boat because you’ll experience less movement this way. Use a pillow or headrest to keep your head still.

Look at the horizon

Fixing your eyes on a stable object like the horizon can help stablise your inner sense of balance. At night, or if you’re not beside a window, close your eyes and try to nap.

Take fresh air

Open a window and breathe deeply. Avoid getting too hot. Keeping fresh air circulating will help avoid any bad or stale smells from building up, which can worsen nausea.

Avoid heavy meals

Eat something light an hour before travelling; avoid anything fatty or heavy and avoid alcohol if you’re an adult still dealing with motion sickness. Remember to keep hydrated both before and while travelling.

Use distraction

Listening to music can help distract you from sickness. With young kids, try playing counting games or singing songs. Don’t be tempted to read, however; this can worsen sickness.

Look for remedies

There are some over-the-counter remedies available in pharmacies such as CaldeKids Travel Pops and Seabond travel bands. Talk to your pharmacist about what might be suitable for you or your children.

maternity&infant

Originally posted 2017-05-25 11:08:09.