Air travel sickness, scientifically known as kinetosis, is a specific form of motion sickness induced by the movements of an aircraft. This is a common ailment that affects many travelers, causing symptoms that range from general discomfort to severe nausea and vomiting. Understanding the biological basis for this discomfort and knowing how to proactively manage it can make the difference between an unpleasant journey and a comfortable flight.
Understanding Sensory Conflict
The primary cause of nausea while flying is sensory conflict, or neural mismatch, within the central nervous system. This occurs when the brain receives contradictory signals about the body’s state of motion and equilibrium. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, detects motion and sends constant messages to the brain regarding movement.
During a flight, the inner ear detects the aircraft’s movements, such as turbulence or changes in altitude. Simultaneously, the eyes register a fixed, static environment inside the cabin, sending a “we are standing still” message. The brain struggles to reconcile these conflicting reports from the visual and balance systems, perceiving the input as an error. This confusion triggers a defensive response, often manifesting as nausea and vomiting.
Planning for Prevention
Proactive strategies before and during a flight can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing motion sickness symptoms. Seat selection is one of the most effective preventive measures, as seats located over the wings or closer to the front of the aircraft experience less motion and turbulence. Choosing a window seat is also beneficial because it allows the eyes to observe the external horizon, providing the brain with a visual reference point that aligns with the inner ear’s motion perception.
Dietary choices made prior to flying also impact susceptibility to nausea. Travelers should consume a light meal or snack before boarding, as flying on an empty stomach can exacerbate symptoms. Avoid heavy, fatty, or spicy foods, as these take longer to digest and may increase stomach discomfort. Maintaining adequate hydration is important, but limit or avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which contribute to dehydration. If using over-the-counter antihistamine medications, take them 30 to 60 minutes before the flight to ensure the medicine is fully active when needed.
Immediate Symptom Management
When symptoms surface during the flight, immediate behavioral adjustments can help manage and lessen the discomfort. A primary technique is gaze fixation, which involves looking at a fixed, non-moving point, such as the horizon outside the window. If the outside view is unavailable, focusing on a distant, stationary object inside the cabin offers a similar stabilizing visual cue for the brain.
Directing the airflow from the overhead air vent towards the face and neck can also provide relief. Cool air helps mitigate the clamminess and sweating that often accompanies nausea, reducing overall physiological stress. Simple deep breathing exercises, performed slowly and rhythmically, can help calm the nervous system.
Acupressure bands, which apply steady pressure to the Neiguan point (P6) on the inner wrist, are a non-pharmacological option some individuals find helpful in reducing nausea. The natural root ginger also has a long-standing reputation as an anti-nausea remedy and can be consumed in various forms, such as capsules or ginger ale, to soothe an unsettled stomach.