Here's What You Should Do When You Get Motion Sickness

Motion sickness typically happens to people when traveling by car, boat, train, or airplane (via MedlinePlus). It can come on suddenly and lead to a queasy feeling and cold sweats. People may also experience dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Motion sickness can happen to anyone, but it is more common in pregnant women, children, and people taking certain medications, like birth control or antibiotics.

If you feel motion sickness coming on, there are some things you can do to try to feel better quickly. If you're a passenger in a car, taking control and swapping spots with the driver may actually help relieve motion sickness (via Healthline). If that's not an option, face the direction in which you're going and keep your eyes on the horizon. Open a window to get some air, drink some water, or nibble on saltine crackers.

Distracting yourself with music or conversation can also help ease motion sickness symptoms. Avoid reading books or looking at your phone, as this may make motion sickness worse. Medications are also available to treat motion sickness, including antihistamines, scopolamine skin patches, and oral pills to prevent nausea and vomiting (via Cleveland Clinic).

Most people who are prone to getting motion sickness are aware of it, making it easy to plan ahead and prevent it. If you know you have an upcoming trip, it's important to consider your seating options (via Healthline). On an airplane, try to reserve a window seat. On a bus, train, or boat, you'll want to sit toward the front and face forward. While traveling by ship, request a cabin at water level that is close to the front or middle of the vessel.

Get plenty of rest the day and night before traveling and avoid drinking alcohol, as dehydration, headaches, and anxiety can worsen symptoms of motion sickness. Eat bland, starchy foods before traveling and avoid fatty, greasy, spicy, or acidic foods, as these can lead to an upset stomach.

Most medications for motion sickness should be taken before you get sick. If you know you're taking a trip, have your preferred treatment on hand. Home remedies, such as peppermint and ginger, may also be beneficial.