How do I stop feeling sick on a plane?

Taking Flight Without Taking Ill: Conquering Airplane Nausea

Air travel, while a marvel of modern technology, can be a surprisingly unpleasant experience for many. From the recycled air to the unpredictable turbulence, it’s no wonder some passengers find themselves battling nausea and feeling generally unwell. But don’t let the fear of feeling sick ground your travel plans. With a little preparation and a strategic approach, you can significantly reduce the chances of airplane nausea and enjoy a smoother, more comfortable flight.

The key is to proactively manage the factors that contribute to motion sickness, a common culprit behind in-flight discomfort. Motion sickness arises when your inner ear, eyes, and brain receive conflicting information about your movement. On a plane, your inner ear senses movement, but your eyes, focused on the seat in front of you, tell your brain you’re stationary. This sensory mismatch triggers the uncomfortable symptoms we associate with nausea.

Here’s a breakdown of steps you can take, both before and during your flight, to minimize discomfort:

Pre-Flight Preparation is Paramount:

• Motion Sickness Medication: Your Travel Ally: One of the most effective defenses against motion sickness is medication. Over-the-counter options like Dramamine or Bonine are readily available. Take the recommended dose a few hours before your flight, as they are more effective preventatively than reactively. Consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
• Seat Selection Matters: Finding Your Sweet Spot: Not all seats are created equal when it comes to mitigating motion sickness. Aim for a seat over the wing, which experiences less turbulence than the front or back of the plane. Consider a window seat; focusing on the horizon can help your brain reconcile the conflicting sensory inputs. Furthermore, prioritize a seat with good ventilation. Adjust the overhead air vent to provide a constant flow of fresh air.
• Light Fare, Heavy Avoidance: Before you embark on your journey, opt for a light, easily digestible meal. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods, as these can contribute to nausea. A simple snack like crackers or toast can help settle your stomach. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you and worsen nausea.

During the Flight: Maintaining Control:

• Eyes Forward, Not Down: Ditch the Book (Temporarily): Resist the urge to dive into a book, magazine, or even your phone screen during periods of turbulence or discomfort. Concentrating on close-up reading exacerbates the sensory mismatch. Instead, focus on the horizon or a distant point outside the window. If that’s not possible, close your eyes and focus on your breathing.
• Rest and Relaxation: Finding Your Inner Calm: If you start to feel nauseous, don’t panic. Close your eyes, lean back in your seat, and focus on deep, slow breaths. Rest can help calm your system and reduce the sensation of nausea. Use a travel pillow for added neck support.
• Ginger Power: Nature’s Anti-Nausea Remedy: Ginger has long been known for its anti-nausea properties. Consider bringing ginger candies, ginger tea bags, or ginger chews with you on your flight. Many find that sucking on ginger helps alleviate nausea symptoms.
• Acknowledge and Accept: Focus on the Controllable: Airplane travel involves factors beyond your control, like turbulence and delays. Focusing on these uncontrollable elements can heighten anxiety and worsen nausea. Instead, concentrate on what you can control: your breathing, your posture, your hydration, and your choice of entertainment (music, podcasts – listen with your eyes closed!).

By implementing these strategies, you can proactively address the factors that contribute to airplane nausea and reclaim your in-flight comfort. Remember, preparation and proactive management are key to taking flight without feeling sick. Happy travels!