Date: 08 Jul 2025
Motion sickness—also known as travel sickness, seasickness, airsickness, or kinetosis—is a common condition caused by conflicting signals between your inner ear (vestibular system) and your eyes. When your body senses motion that your eyes can’t see (or vice versa), your brain becomes confused. This sensory mismatch frequently results in nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, vomiting, headaches, and sometimes fatigue or pallor.
Nearly one-third of people are highly susceptible to motion sickness under normal travel conditions, and up to 80% may experience it during rough journeys. Certain individuals—such as pregnant women, migraine sufferers, or those with vestibular migraines or Ménière's disease—are even more vulnerable.
What Causes Travel Sickness?
- Sensory conflict: When your inner ear senses motion, but your eyes don't (e.g., reading in a moving car), the mismatch triggers symptoms.
- Visual-vestibular disparity: Watching moving visuals (e.g., VR or movies) without actual motion can also cause nausea—called visually induced motion sickness .
- Other triggers: Low ventilation, strong odors, or anxiety can increase susceptibility. Additionally, factors like sleep deprivation, certain health conditions, and age may play a role.
Preventing Motion Sickness
Behavior-Based Strategies
- Keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or a stable point outside the vehicle.
- Face forward and keep your head still—avoid sudden movements.
- Avoid reading or screen use during travel.
- Sit where motion is least perceived: front seat in cars, midship on boats, or by the wings in planes.
- Fresh air and hydration help stabilize your senses.
- Progressive habituation, like regularly exposing yourself to motion, can gradually reduce symptoms.
Pharmily Kenya Products for Motion Sickness
Chewable tablets containing hyoscine hydrobromide (scopolamine), one of the most effective medications for preventing motion-induced nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Ideal for car, plane, boat, or train travel. Take 20–30 minutes before travel; fast-acting and convenient.
Specifically formulated for children ·0.3 mg hyoscine hydrobromide in easy chewable form. Safe for children aged 4 and over; prevents early landside symptoms like dizziness and queasiness during travel.
A syrup containing dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine that blocks motion-induced nausea and vomiting. Suitable for both adults and children, its liquid format makes it easier for younger travelers. Take 30–60 minutes before travel for best results.
Natural ginger supplement in convenient capsule form with antiemetic and soothing properties. A well-researched natural remedy that helps alleviate nausea and motion-induced digestive discomfort.
How to Use These Remedies Effectively
- Behavior + OTC: Combine behavioral strategies with medication for maximum relief.
- Timing matters: Most medications need 20–60 minutes before travel, while ginger can be taken daily or just before you depart.
- Appropriate dosage: Follow the instructions and consult a pharmacist—especially for children or pregnant women.
- Short-term use only: OTC options are for occasional travel, not daily reliance.
- Hydrate and ventilate: Air circulation and sipping water during travel reduce symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I take motion sickness tablets?
Take chewable tablets like Kwells or dose Vomiteb Syrup 30–60 minutes before travel for optimal prevention. Always follow product instructions.
2. Are there natural remedies for travel sickness?
Yes—ginger capsules, such as Bio-Health Ginger Root, are backed by research showing effectiveness against motion-induced nausea and digestive upset.
3. Can children safely take motion sickness medicine?
Children over 4 can use Kwells Kids Tablets. Vomiteb Syrup dosage depends on age—always confirm with a pharmacist or healthcare provider before use.
4. What if I still feel sick during travel?
Pause reading and focus on the horizon, get fresh air, drink water, and stay seated facing forward. Use your medication again, if allowed—check timing and dose limits. For persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
