Family road trips are a wonderful opportunity for family bonding, but they can be challenging for children who suffer from kinetosis (motion sickness). What many people refer to as car sickness isn’t just limited to car travel – it can also occur on planes, boats, and amusement park rides. Motion sickness is a broader condition triggered by any type of movement that can cause dizziness, nausea, and discomfort, potentially disrupting the enjoyment of a trip and halting family activities.
While motion sickness can affect anyone, certain individuals are more susceptible than others. Children ages 2 – 12 are particularly vulnerable, as their sensory systems are still developing, therefore they’re more sensitive to conflicting body signals. Additionally, genetics can also play a role, if a parent experiences motion sickness, there’s a higher likelihood of 50% that their child will as well. Studies suggest that the hereditary aspect of motion sickness could be related to how the brain processes motion signals.
Understanding Motion Sickness
Motion sickness occurs when there are conflicting signals from the eyes, body, and sensitive part of the inner ear that helps maintain balance. The brain relies on the vestibular system, which includes the inner ear and eyes, to understand spatial orientation and motion.
Children’s bodies are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to changes in motion, balance, and their environment. Since the areas in the inner ear responsible for maintaining balance are not as fully matured, this leads to a greater susceptibility to motion sickness. Additionally, their nervous systems may react more strongly to sensory input, such as the feeling of movement or the visual stimuli of a moving environment.
Fun rides, especially those in amusement parks that contain ups and downs or spins, can trigger motion sickness in children. Since these rides have changes in motion, direction, and elevation, they bombard the body with disorientating stimuli. Another example is when children are sitting in a moving car, their eyes perceive motion while their body senses stillness, causing conflicting signals and resulting in motion sickness.
Symptoms of Motion Sickness
You may see in your child these symptoms of motion sickness that can appear suddenly or develop gradually:
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Irritability
- Rapid breathing
- Excessive salivation
- Sweating or cold palmy skin
These symptoms may also vary by age group. Before the age of six, it is more common for a child to experience symptoms such as dizziness, while for a 12-year-old they may experience more nausea.
How Long Does Motion Sickness Last?
The duration of motion sickness symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition and your child’s sensitivity. In most cases, systems subside once the motion stops. However, it is not uncommon for nausea, dizziness, and fatigue to longer for several hours after the triggering activity. For some children, the effects can last up to a day, especially if the motion was prolonged such as during a long trip or flight.
What Can Parents Do to Help Prevent Motion Sickness?
Since motion sickness is common in children, preventative measures can help avoid ruining a family vacation or trips to the amusement park. Here are some tips to help manage motion sickness in children:
- Medication: Administer anti-motion sickness medication, which is available in chewable tablets for children aged two and older, about an hour before travel. These medications are available over-the-counter. Consult with your child’s pediatrician before use.
- Acupressure Wristbands: These wristbands can help relieve nausea by stimulating pressure points and are a helpful tool for preventing symptoms.
- Avoid Triggers: Have children avoid activities like reading books or watching screens during travel, as these can trigger symptoms. Instead, encourage children to look out the window or listen to audiobooks.
- Environmental Control: Keep the vehicle well-ventilated and take breaks to allow fresh air. Light meals before travel can also help mitigate symptoms.
- Strategic Positioning: Position your child in a seat where the motion is less intense. For example, sitting in the middle of a car, near the wings of an airplane, or on the deck of a boat can help reduce the sensation of motion. Additionally, some children may benefit from sitting next to a window, as looking outside can provide a steady visual reference point, which can also reduce nausea.
- Distraction Techniques: Engaging your child in conversation, singing songs, or playing games can help take their mind off the motion, reducing the chances of them feeling ill.
Implementing these simple yet effective tactics can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for children prone to motion sickness and their families, allowing everyone to make the most out of the vacation.
Caring for Child When They Have Motion Sickness
Despite your best efforts, children may still experience motion sickness. If it happens, here are some helpful tips:
- Rest: Encourage your child to lie down and rest. If they can fall asleep, even better, as it often helps relieve symptoms.
- Stay Hydrated: Offer clear fluids, preferably water, to keep them hydrated.
- Be Prepared for Nausea: Vomiting is a common symptom of motion sickness. In most cases, children only vomit once, but it’s wise to have a container or vomiting bag on hand.
- Plan Ahead: If you know your child is prone to motion sickness, start with shorter trips to assess their tolerance and the effectiveness of preventative measures.
For more information and personalized advice, consult with your child’s pediatrician to find the best strategies tailored to your child’s needs.
When Should Parents Seek Medical Help?
While preventive measures are often effective, there are times when medical attention may be necessary.
Contact Your Child’s Physician Within 24 Hours:
- If motion sickness symptoms last more than 8 hours.
- If you think your child needs medical attention, but it is not urgent.
- If you have questions or concerns.
Seek Immediate Medical Care:
- If your child’s nausea and vomiting do not subside after treatment.
- If symptoms persist for more than three days after the trip.
- If your child’s condition does not improve as expected.
If you and your family are traveling and unable to seek medical care in-person, MemorialCare also offers scheduling for 24/7 virtual urgent care. These virtual visits allow you and your family to receive care anytime and anywhere.
Remember, motion sickness is common and often improves as children grow older. With proper planning and care, your family can continue enjoying safe and happy travels.
