There are numerous types of sea sickness treatment available. Choosing the best remedy can depend on several factors, and individuals may have to try more than one method before finding an appropriate treatment. People who suffer from sea sickness, also known as motion sickness, can often get relief from over-the-counter and prescription medications, or from alternative treatments such as ginger and acupressure bands. Seeking medical attention when the symptoms do not go away and knowing how to prevent sea sickness in the first place are important considerations as well.
Many people take over-the-counter antihistamines in order to prevent or treat sea sickness. These include such drugs as meclizine, dimenhydrinate, and diphenhydramine. They are used primarily as sedatives and anti-nausea medications. Some common side effects of each can include drowsiness and dry mouth.
It may be necessary to consult with a physician and try different types of sea sickness treatment. Prescription options can include scopolamine, which can be taken orally or as a topical treatment but usually is administered via a skin patch. Another prescription treatment is promethazine, which is taken as a tablet, liquid, suppository, or injection. Drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth are potential side effects of these prescription medicines. Choosing the best sea sickness treatment will most likely depend on one’s susceptibility to adverse reactions.
One example of a popular alternative sea sickness treatment is ginger, which is usually taken as a pill or powder. Ginger has been credited with relieving nausea and stomach pain, though it has not been scientifically confirmed as an effective remedy. Similarly, many people wear acupressure bands on their wrists to stimulate the pressure points associated with stomach problems and nausea. Other people claim that physical therapy focusing on balance and motion is a beneficial sea sickness treatment. These claims, however, are usually anecdotal reports.
For maximum effectiveness, most methods of sea sickness treatment should be started well in advance of the activity that produces the symptoms. Medications typically contain instructions that specify when and how the treatment is to be administered. In rare cases, some people experience sea sickness up to a few days after the offending activity and may require serious medical attention. In such cases, many health professionals recommend consulting a specialist who deals with conditions of the ear and nervous system.
Sea sickness prevention is often preferable to treatment after the fact. Some tips to keep in mind include positioning oneself in cars, boats, and planes in such a way that prevents dizziness and disorientation. Travelers are often advised to avoid certain activities, such as reading, and to avoid certain foods — or perhaps eating altogether — prior to traveling. When motion sickness begins, trying to stop the motion or changing positions are two common suggestions.