It can be puzzling to suddenly experience motion sickness on roller coasters, especially if they were once a source of enjoyment. Many experience this unexpected change, feeling nauseated or dizzy on rides they once loved. This shift in tolerance is a common phenomenon with scientific explanations.
The Sensory Mismatch
Motion sickness arises from a fundamental conflict within the brain’s processing of movement. Your brain relies on input from several sensory systems—your inner ear (vestibular system) for movement and balance, your eyes (visual system), and proprioceptors in muscles and joints for body position—to understand your body’s motion.
When these systems send conflicting signals, a “sensory mismatch” occurs. For instance, on a roller coaster, your inner ear might strongly sense rapid acceleration and turns, while your eyes might focus on the relatively stationary ride car in front or blur the fast-moving environment. This discrepancy confuses the brain, leading to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, sweating, and general unease. The brain interprets these conflicting signals as a potential sign of poisoning, triggering nausea and vomiting.
Why It Might Be Happening Now
Experiencing motion sickness on roller coasters later in life can be attributed to several evolving factors. The vestibular system can become less efficient or more sensitive with age. Changes in its function can alter how your brain processes motion, lowering your tolerance for intense movements.
Visual changes can also play a significant role. As people age, vision can shift, or new glasses/contact lenses can subtly alter visual input. If your eyes struggle to coordinate or focus effectively, this can exacerbate the sensory mismatch, making you more susceptible. Conditions like binocular vision dysfunction, where the eyes do not work together efficiently, can contribute to this issue.
Psychological factors, such as increased anxiety or stress, can lower the threshold for motion sickness. Stress can make the body more sensitive to sensory input, intensifying the brain’s reaction to conflicting signals.
Certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can have side effects that increase susceptibility to nausea and dizziness. Examples include antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and certain antibiotics.
Lifestyle factors can also influence your susceptibility. Sleep deprivation, dehydration, or consuming heavy, greasy, or spicy meals can predispose you to motion sickness. Conversely, a light, bland meal and adequate hydration are more favorable before rides.
Preparing for Your Next Ride
If you experience motion sickness on roller coasters but still want to enjoy them, several strategies can help. Choosing your seat strategically can make a difference; middle cars often experience less intense motion. Keeping your head still and pressed against the headrest can help align brain signals, reducing sensory conflict.
Focusing vision on a fixed point, such as the horizon or a non-moving part of the ride, can help synchronize visual input with body motion. Before riding, ensure you are well-rested and hydrated. Eat a light, bland meal, avoiding heavy or spicy foods, alcohol, and strong odors, as these can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Simple breathing techniques, like slow, deep diaphragmatic breathing, can help calm your nervous system and alleviate nausea. Over-the-counter antihistamines like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine) are common remedies; take them 30-60 minutes before the ride. Prescription options like scopolamine patches are also available for more severe cases. While some studies suggest ginger may help with nausea, its effectiveness for preventing motion sickness is debated. Gradual exposure, starting with less intense rides, can help your body adapt.