Combat motion sickness without medication

WASHINGTON – Road trips can be fun, unless you’re one of those people who gets green and nauseated on most car rides.

Before turning immediately to medication, Aurora Health Care has some tips on combating car sickness.

  • Have some ginger tea or chews on hand. They can be as effective as over-the-counter medications for motion sickness symptoms. Peppermint can also be helpful.
  • While in the car, look into the distance and focus on the horizon, or another steady point.
  • Keep your head as still as possible. Sudden movements can make things worse.
  • If you can’t sit in the front seat (best for those prone to motion sickness) then the middle seat in the back is second best. That way you can look out the car window at the horizon.
  • Pressure patches, which are worn on the wrist, put pressure on pulse points. Their effectiveness has not been proven.
  • During the ride, avoid reading, alcohol and heavy, spicy foods.

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