Why Does Motion Sickness Happen? The Surprising Reason & 4 Tips to Prevent It
Lifestyle News, 11 Jan 2026 (BNN Web Staff)
Why Does Motion Sickness Happen? The thought of a journey brings a smile to many faces, but for some, simply sitting in a car or bus marks the beginning of discomfort. As soon as the vehicle moves, a heavy head, queasy stomach, and the feeling of nausea set in. This common problem, affecting both children and adults, is known as motion sickness. But why does it happen, and how can you find relief? If you too feel sick while traveling, this story is for you.
Why Do We Get Motion Sickness?
Our body’s sense of balance is managed by three systems: our eyes, our inner ears, and our body’s muscles. Together, they tell the brain whether the body is moving or stationary.
When you’re sitting at home, all three systems send the same, consistent message to your brain. The trouble starts when you get into a vehicle.
As the car moves, your eyes see the outside world—trees, roads, other vehicles, signs—rushing past. They signal to the brain: “We’re moving!”
Meanwhile, your body is settled stably in the seat. So, your inner ears (which sense motion and equilibrium) and your muscles signal: “We’re sitting still.”
When the brain receives these two conflicting signals simultaneously, it gets confused. This neurological confusion manifests as dizziness, nausea, and eventually, vomiting.
4 Effective Tips to Find Relief During Travel
Get Fresh Air: If you’re in a car or bus, try to open a window slightly. On a plane, direct the air vent toward you. Cool, fresh air can help soothe the brain and reduce nausea.
Avoid Screens and Books: Looking at a mobile phone or reading a book during travel can worsen motion sickness, as it focuses your eyes on a stationary object inside the moving vehicle. It’s better to look outside at the horizon, which helps reconcile the sensory mismatch.
Try Sweet or Minty Flavors: If you start feeling odd, sucking on a peppermint or a sweet candy can be helpful. The taste and scent often have a calming effect on the stomach, providing relief for many.
Use Ginger: Ginger is widely recognized for its benefits against nausea and vomiting. You can drink ginger tea before your journey or keep ginger candies or chews handy during travel.
Disclaimer: The advice and suggestions mentioned in this article are for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for any specific questions or concerns you may have.
