Doctor Amir Khan shares five tips to avoid car sickness

Beat Car Sickness This Summer: Tips from Dr. Amir Khan

Summer road trips can be exciting, but car sickness can quickly ruin the fun. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimize or even prevent motion sickness. Dr. Amir Khan shares some simple yet effective tips, from adjusting your seating position to making smart food choices before and during your journey.

Understanding Car Sickness

Car sickness arises from a conflict between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses. When your inner ear detects movement but your eyes are focused on a stationary object inside the car, the brain gets confused, leading to nausea and other symptoms.

Practical Tips to Prevent Car Sickness

• Choose the Right Seat: Sit in the front seat or the middle row, where motion is less noticeable. Facing forward can also help align your vision with the direction of travel.
• Focus on the Horizon: Encourage passengers to look out the window and focus on a distant, stable point on the horizon. This helps synchronize visual input with the inner ear’s sense of motion.
• Fresh Air: Ensure good ventilation inside the car. Open a window or use the air conditioning to circulate fresh air, reducing stuffiness that can worsen nausea.
• Avoid Reading or Screens: Reading books, using smartphones, or playing video games can exacerbate car sickness. These activities fix your gaze on a close object, intensifying the sensory conflict.
• Snack Smart: Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods before and during car trips. Opt for light, easily digestible snacks like crackers, plain bread, or ginger candies. Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of motion sickness.
• Take Breaks: If possible, stop the car periodically to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Short breaks can help reset your senses and alleviate nausea.

Medication Options

For those who are highly susceptible to car sickness, over-the-counter or prescription medications can be helpful. Antihistamines, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine), are commonly used to prevent motion sickness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Final Overview

By implementing these practical tips from Dr. Amir Khan, you can significantly reduce the chances of experiencing car sickness this summer. Planning your trip with these considerations will ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone.