Why do buses make me feel sick?

Why Does the Bus Turn My Stomach? The Science of Motion Sickness on Wheels

For some, the humble bus is a gateway to adventure, a cost-effective chariot to new destinations. For others, it’s a rolling chamber of nausea, a metal box promising a one-way ticket to queasiness. Why do buses, in particular, seem to trigger this unpleasant phenomenon known as motion sickness? The answer lies in a sensory mismatch within our own bodies.

Motion sickness, whether experienced on a bus, boat, or even in a car, stems from conflicting information bombarding our brains. Our bodies perceive motion in several ways. Our inner ear, containing delicate balance mechanisms, detects acceleration and changes in direction. Our eyes provide visual confirmation of movement, seeing the world whiz by or the interior of the bus remain relatively static. And finally, our proprioceptive system, located in our muscles and joints, tells us where our body is in space.

On a bus, this carefully orchestrated system can fall into disarray. The jostling motion, the frequent stops and starts, and the swaying around corners create a sensory conflict. Your inner ear registers the movement, telling your brain you’re in motion. However, if you’re looking down at your phone or a book, your eyes tell your brain you’re still. This discrepancy creates a sensory mismatch. Similarly, while your body might be jolted forward by sudden braking, your visual field might remain focused on a stationary object inside the bus, further adding to the confusion.

This sensory conflict triggers a cascade of reactions within the brain. One prevailing theory suggests that the brain interprets this mismatch as a sign of poisoning, leading to the activation of defense mechanisms like nausea and vomiting, designed to expel the perceived toxin. Sweating, dizziness, and headaches are other common symptoms resulting from this sensory overload.

So, why are buses particularly notorious for inducing motion sickness? Unlike smoother forms of transport like trains or planes, buses are often subject to more erratic movements. Frequent stops and starts, navigating through traffic, and traversing uneven road surfaces all contribute to a more turbulent ride, exacerbating the sensory conflict. The higher center of gravity in a double-decker bus can also amplify the swaying sensation, further increasing the likelihood of motion sickness.

While susceptibility to motion sickness varies from person to person, understanding the underlying cause can help manage the symptoms. Focusing on the horizon, ensuring adequate ventilation, avoiding reading or focusing on close-up objects, and maintaining a stable head position can all help minimize the sensory conflict. Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, can also provide relief. So, while the bus might not always be the smoothest ride, understanding the science behind motion sickness can empower you to take control and enjoy the journey.