What is air sickness?
Before diving into handling air sickness, let’s understand what it is:
- Definition: Air sickness, also known as motion sickness, is a condition that occurs when your inner ear, eyes, and other sensory organs send conflicting signals to your brain, resulting in nausea, dizziness, and discomfort during flights.
- Common Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, fatigue, and general unease.
Preventing air sickness
- Choose the right seat: Opt for a seat near the wings, where the aircraft tends to be most stable. Avoid sitting in the back or facing backward.
- Focus on the horizon: Looking outside at a fixed point in the distance can help stabilize your senses and reduce motion-related discomfort.
- Avoid heavy meals: Eat light, non-greasy meals before your flight to minimize the chances of feeling nauseous. Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These substances can worsen symptoms of air sickness. Opt for non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverages instead.
- Consider medication: Consult your healthcare professional about over-the-counter or prescription medications that can help prevent or alleviate air sickness symptoms.
Coping strategies during the flight
- Breathe and relax: Practice deep breathing techniques and relaxation exercises to help calm your mind and reduce feelings of anxiety or discomfort.
- Avoid reading or focusing on screens: Engaging in activities that require intense visual concentration, such as reading or watching movies, can exacerbate air sickness. Instead, close your eyes or focus on the horizon.
- Distract yourself: Engage in activities that divert your attention away from the motion, such as listening to calming music, chatting with fellow passengers, or using noise-canceling headphones.
- Fresh air and ventilation: Open the air vent above your seat to allow fresh air to circulate. Proper ventilation can help alleviate symptoms.
If air sickness strikes
- Notify the flight attendants: Inform the flight attendants about your condition. They may provide assistance or offer helpful remedies.
- Stay hydrated: Sip on water or clear liquids to prevent dehydration. Avoid consuming acidic or spicy foods that may further upset your stomach.
- Relax and close your eyes: Find a comfortable position, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing to help ease the discomfort.
- Use motion sickness bags: Be prepared by keeping motion sickness bags or vomit bags within reach, just in case.
By implementing preventive measures, employing coping strategies, and being prepared, you can effectively handle air sickness and make your flights more comfortable and enjoyable.
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