Treatment of Motion Sickness -- Acute
People who experience vomiting as a symptom of motion sickness need to be careful not to become dehydrated, which can cause a loss of electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals necessary for the regulation of heartbeat and blood pressure. Drinking sports drinks helps to restore the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. In severe cases of vomiting and dehydration, intravenous fluid/electrolyte replacement can help restore this balance.
If you're feeling nauseated, try sipping a clear carbonated beverage (such as lemon/lime soda or ginger ale) or nibbling on some dry crackers to help settle your stomach. If you can, get some fresh air by going up on the deck of a ship or cracking open your car window.
Focus your eyes on far away and stationary objects, such as the horizon. If that's not possible, try sitting still with your eyes closed and breathing deeply. Keep your head still and try not to move. Also, spending some time doing relaxation or deep breathing exercises or practicing some other calming behaviors may help to manage your symptoms.
Finally, get plenty of rest during your travels, especially if they are extended. Motion sickness often produces feelings of lethargy and sleepiness. These feelings may linger even once nausea from a severe bout of motion sickness dissipates.
Generally, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting are difficult to alleviate once symptoms have begun, so the best treatment for motion sickness is prevention.
