Do you get more car sick in the back?

Do You Get More Car Sick in the Back?

Car sickness, medically known as motion sickness, is a common ailment that affects many people, particularly children. It occurs when there is a conflict between the signals sent to the brain from the inner ear, eyes, and body.

The Role of Sensory Conflicts

When we move, our inner ear’s vestibular system detects the motion and sends signals to the brain. However, if our eyes and body are not moving in sync with the inner ear, a sensory conflict arises. This can happen when reading or watching a movie in a car, especially in the back seat.

Motion Sickness in the Back Seat

In the back seat of a car, the conflicting sensory signals are more pronounced. This is because the rear passengers are further away from the center of rotation, which creates greater lateral acceleration. As a result, the inner ear detects more movement than the eyes and body, leading to nausea and other symptoms of car sickness.

Factors Contributing to Back Seat Car Sickness

Besides the sensory conflict, other factors can also contribute to car sickness in the back seat:

• Reduced visual cues: The rear seat provides fewer visual cues for the body to interpret, making it more difficult to adjust to the motion of the car.
• Lack of control: Back seat passengers often feel less in control, which can increase anxiety and worsen motion sickness.
• Narrower field of view: The view from the back seat is narrower, limiting the passenger’s ability to focus on objects outside the car and stabilize their gaze.

Preventing Car Sickness in the Back Seat

To reduce the risk of car sickness in the back seat, consider the following tips:

• Avoid reading or watching movies: Reading or using electronic devices can exacerbate sensory conflicts.
• Choose a seat near the front: If possible, sit in the front seat or a seat closer to the center of the car.
• Focus on the horizon: Keep your eyes on a fixed point outside the car, such as the horizon or a tree line.
• Get fresh air: Open a window or use a fan to circulate air and reduce stuffiness.
• Avoid eating large meals: Eating a heavy meal before or during a car ride can worsen motion sickness.
• Use anti-nausea medication: If other measures fail, over-the-counter anti-nausea medications can help reduce symptoms.

By following these tips, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing car sickness in the back seat and enjoy a more comfortable ride.