Motion sickness (kinetosis) is a common issue that occurs when traveling, and reading significantly increases the chance of experiencing it. The nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats associated with motion sickness often force a reader to put their book down. Successfully reading in a moving vehicle requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the underlying biological conflict. The goal is to harmonize the body’s internal sense of movement with the visual information the eyes are receiving.
The Mechanism of Sensory Conflict
Reading in a moving car causes motion sickness because the brain receives conflicting signals from the body’s sensory systems. The inner ear’s vestibular system detects motion, acceleration, and changes in head position, constantly signaling that the body is moving. Simultaneously, the eyes are fixed on a stationary page or screen, sending a contradictory signal to the brain that the body is perfectly still.
This mismatch between the visual input and the vestibular input creates a “sensory conflict,” which the brain struggles to reconcile. The brain may interpret this sensory confusion as a sign that the body has ingested a neurotoxin or poison, since hallucinations and disorientation can be symptoms of poisoning. To protect the body from this perceived threat, the brain triggers a protective response that includes nausea and vomiting. Reducing this conflict is the foundation for preventing the onset of symptoms.
Adjusting Reading Technique and Material
Passengers should adjust their interaction with the reading material. Holding the book or device higher and further away from the face helps to expand the visual field, allowing peripheral vision to register the car’s movement. Maintaining the material at eye level, rather than looking down into a lap, helps keep the line of sight aligned with the horizon and reduces eye strain.
Intermittent reading involves frequently glancing up from the page to look at the distant environment. Focusing on the horizon or a distant, fixed object allows the visual system to confirm the motion the inner ear is sensing, temporarily aligning the sensory inputs. If using a digital device, opting for large font sizes and avoiding rapid, continuous scrolling minimizes visual processing. Ensuring the reading environment is well-lit can also help reduce eye strain, which may exacerbate symptoms.
Optimizing Your Position in the Vehicle
Physical placement within the vehicle significantly impacts the severity of sensory conflict. The front passenger seat is the best position because it offers a clear, forward-facing view of the road. From this vantage point, the visual sense can directly observe the motion, which helps align it with the vestibular system’s signals. Passengers should avoid sitting in the back seat, especially the middle seat, where motion is often more pronounced and visual access to the road is limited.
Minimizing head movement is a key strategy, as excessive movement can disrupt the fluid in the inner ear, intensifying vestibular signals. Leaning the head against the headrest or a pillow helps keep it stable against the vehicle’s vibrations and turns. Opening a window or directing an air vent toward the face can also provide relief, as the sensation of cool, fresh air helps alleviate feelings of nausea.
Pre-Trip Preparations and Supportive Aids
Measures taken before and during the trip can provide a foundation for reading without discomfort. Over-the-counter medications like non-drowsy antihistamines (such as meclizine) or prescription options like scopolamine patches can be effective by reducing the sensitivity of the vestibular system. Oral medications should be taken at least 30 minutes before travel begins to allow time for absorption.
Natural remedies, particularly ginger, have shown clinical benefits in preventing and treating motion sickness. Consuming a clinically tested dose of ginger, often found in specialized supplements, is more effective than relying on ginger candy or ginger ale. Some individuals find relief from acupressure wristbands, which apply gentle pressure to the P6 or Neiguan point on the inner wrist to help reduce nausea. Eating a light, low-fat meal before travel and staying well-hydrated are practical steps, as an empty or overly full stomach can increase susceptibility to motion sickness.