Travel sickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common condition that affects many individuals during various modes of transportation. Our pharmacy staff understand this condition and can provide effective advice and recommend appropriate treatments to customers.

Causes And Symptoms

Motion sickness happens when the body, the inner ear, and the eyes send conflicting signals to the brain. This most often happens when you are in a car, boat, or airplane, but it may also happen on flight simulators or amusement park rides.

Travel sickness occurs when there's a mismatch between the visual information received by the eyes and the motion sensed by the inner ear.

Motion sickness usually goes away when the motion stops.

Symptoms can include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Cold sweats

• Pallor

• Increased salivation

Prevention Strategies

You should consider the following preventive measures:

• Sit in areas with minimal motion (e.g., front seat of a car, over the wings in an airplane)

• Focus on a fixed point in the distance or on the horizon

• Ensure proper ventilation

• Avoid reading or using electronic devices during travel

• Consume light, easily digestible meals before and during travel

Treatment Options

Several over-the-counter medications can help alleviate travel sickness symptoms:

• Antihistamines (e.g., dimenhydrinate, meclozine)

• Anticholinergics (e.g., scopolamine patches)

These medications work best when taken before travel begins. Remind customers about potential side effects, such as drowsiness.

Natural Remedies

Some people prefer natural alternatives:

• Ginger supplements or tea

• Peppermint

• Acupressure wristbands

While evidence for their effectiveness varies, these options may provide relief for some individuals.

Special Considerations

We can offer tailored advice for:

• Children (appropriate dosages and formulations)

• Pregnant women (safety of medications)

• Individuals with pre-existing conditions or taking other medications

By understanding travel sickness and available treatments, we can effectively assist you in managing this common condition, ensuring more comfortable and enjoyable travel experiences.