Motion sickness occurs when the body’s sensory systems send conflicting signals to the brain. On amusement park rides, this conflict happens because the inner ear’s vestibular system senses the physical motion, while the eyes see an environment that does not match the movement. This sensory mismatch triggers a response in the brain that often manifests as nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats. Managing this challenge requires a layered approach, including physical management, preventative remedies, and immediate relief techniques.
Pre-Ride Physical and Sensory Management
Strategically choosing your seat is an effective, non-chemical method for managing ride-induced motion sickness. On large roller coasters, the most stable position is often in the middle cars, which experience less of the whipping and intense acceleration forces felt at the front and back ends of the train. For rides that primarily spin or revolve, selecting a seat closest to the center axis of rotation minimizes the centrifugal forces acting on the body.
Visual strategy also reduces the sensory conflict that causes discomfort. While riding, look toward a fixed, distant point, such as the horizon line or a stationary structure outside the ride’s movement. This action helps align visual input with inner ear signals, reducing the perceived mismatch. If a distant view is not possible, focus intently on a non-moving part of the ride vehicle, such as the seat in front of you.
Your diet before entering the park can either help or hinder comfort. Consume light, bland carbohydrates, such as plain crackers or toast, an hour or two before riding. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods, as these require more digestive effort and can exacerbate nausea. Opt instead for water or mild electrolyte beverages to maintain hydration, avoiding carbonated drinks and acidic juices.
Over-the-Counter and Natural Remedies
Pharmacological options require proper timing to work effectively for prevention. Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Dimenhydrinate or Diphenhydramine, work by depressing the central nervous system and blocking signals from the inner ear’s balance center. These medications must be taken 30 to 60 minutes before your first ride, as they are preventative. A common side effect of these first-generation antihistamines is drowsiness, which can impact your enjoyment.
Ginger is effective for the nausea component of motion sickness. Ginger works by acting on the gastrointestinal tract, promoting gastric motility and reducing the release of vasopressin, a hormone linked to nausea and vomiting. Unlike antihistamines, ginger does not appear to affect the inner ear’s vestibular system directly. It can be consumed in capsule form, chews, or crystallized pieces, often with a recommended dose of 1,000 mg taken before the start of the day.
Acupressure wristbands are a popular non-chemical option that applies continuous pressure to the P6 or Neiguan point on the inner wrist. While scientific evidence for their efficacy is mixed, they are drug-free and have virtually no side effects, making them a safe option for individuals seeking a non-drowsy preventative measure. They are best used as part of a multi-faceted approach alongside dietary and seating strategies. The goal of any preventative remedy is to quiet the brain’s response to the sensory conflict before it has a chance to escalate into severe symptoms.
Immediate Relief Techniques During the Ride
If prevention strategies have failed and symptoms of nausea and dizziness start during a ride, immediate techniques can manage the discomfort. Minimize the movement of your head, which further jostles the fluid in your inner ear. Press your head firmly against the headrest or seat back to keep it stabilized, and avoid looking around at the fast-moving scenery.
Controlled breathing can help to calm the nervous system’s reaction to the motion. Focus on slow, deep diaphragmatic breaths, inhaling slowly through the nose and exhaling slowly through the mouth. This technique helps to regulate the vagus nerve, which connects the brain and the gut, and can help to suppress the rising feeling of nausea.
Seeking a source of cool air can also provide immediate relief. If possible, direct any available air vents toward your face and neck, as the rush of cool air counteracts the cold sweats associated with motion sickness. Once the ride has stopped, do not rush to stand up. Sit still for a moment with your eyes closed or focused on a stable object until the residual sensation of motion subsides. Sip water slowly to rehydrate and settle the stomach before attempting to walk.