Have you ever experienced motion sickness? It is not a fun experience. It often affects your stomach and head, making you feel dizzy and nauseous. Children can have a worse time dealing with motion sickness than adults, but the phenomenon affects everyone. However, women and children seem to be more prone to the condition than men. Some people argue that Wellements probiotic drops and other over-the-counter medications can help combat the symptoms of motion sickness.
Still, even if you can combat the symptoms, it is difficult for a parent to watch their child suffer. Thus, it is better to understand the condition and figure out ways to relieve or reduce the likelihood of it flaring up. While there are some obvious ways to control the condition, they all stem from understanding how the sickness starts.
Why Your Child Gets Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is the result of an inner ear with a sensitive center. The center is responsible for assisting the body in maintaining balance. If a child has a sensitive center, they are prone to motion sickness in various situations, including amusement park rides, boat tours, and even routine car travel.
A common misconception is that motion sickness is somehow psychological; it is not. The condition cannot be controlled with willpower. Your child is not presenting with motion sickness on purpose; there is no ulterior motive.
If a parent had or has a sensitive center of the inner ear, there is a 50/50 chance the child will too. Because motion sickness is often worse in children, it is wise to select tummy drops or other medications to treat the symptoms before taking any long trips.
How To Keep the Queasiness Away
There are several methods for preventing motion sickness, including changing the child’s positioning in the vehicle. For children 12 years and older, place them in the front seat so they can look out the front window. Children under 12 years of age can sit in the middle of the back seat to see out the front window. Looking out the front window will reduce the likelihood or severity of motion sickness.
Additionally, children should avoid reading or watching movies while in the car. The car’s movement with the focus on a screen will cause a flare-up of motion sickness. Finally, acupressure bands can reduce the severity of symptoms in children and may be worth a shot. You will want to contact your child’s doctor if symptoms are severe, become progressive, or last more than eight hours.
If your child is prone to motion sickness, it is wise to have a baby bundle set, a supply of plastic bags, and spare clothing on hand in case of vomiting. You can also drive with the window cracked to allow fresh air into the vehicle.
Motion sickness is uncomfortable, and it can interrupt family plans. However, it is not intentional. Your child cannot help it if they are sick. The best thing a family can do is prepare for the worst and talk to their pediatrician for suggestions.
