Transport (Sick of)

Transport sickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common condition that affects a significant number of people. It occurs when there is a discrepancy between the visual perception of motion and the body's sense of balance. This leads to a feeling of nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Transport sickness can be a major inconvenience for people who need to travel frequently, and it can also be a safety issue for those operating vehicles.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Transport sickness is caused by a conflict between the visual system and the vestibular system, which is responsible for the body's sense of balance. When these two systems send conflicting signals to the brain, it can result in symptoms of transport sickness. The condition is more likely to occur when traveling by car, boat, or plane, as these forms of transportation involve continuous and unpredictable movements.

• Several factors can increase the risk of transport sickness, including:

• Genetics: Studies have shown that some people are more susceptible to transport sickness due to genetic factors.

• Age: Children are more likely to experience transport sickness than adults.

• Gender: Women are more likely to experience transport sickness than men, possibly due to hormonal factors.

• Pre-existing medical conditions: People with conditions such as migraines, inner ear disorders, or anxiety are more likely to experience transport sickness.

Symptoms and Complications

The symptoms of transport sickness can range from mild to severe and can include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Sweating

• Palpitations

If left untreated, transport sickness can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and even injury due to falls or accidents. It can also lead to anxiety or fear of traveling, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

Prevention and Treatment

There are several measures that people can take to prevent or reduce the symptoms of transport sickness, including:

• Avoiding heavy meals before travel

• Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated

• Taking deep breaths and focusing on a fixed point in the distance

• Avoiding alcohol and caffeine

• Taking breaks during long journeys

• Using medication, such as antihistamines, which can help to reduce the symptoms of transport sickness.

For people who prefer alternative or complementary therapies, there are several Oriental medicine techniques that may help. Acupuncture and acupressure have been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of transport sickness. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure involves applying pressure to these points using the fingers.

According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, acupuncture and acupressure can be effective in reducing the symptoms of transport sickness, with no significant side effects. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Conclusion

Transport sickness can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are several measures that people can take to prevent or reduce its symptoms. Medications, such as antihistamines, are effective in many cases, but alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and acupressure, may also be helpful. If you suffer from transport sickness, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for you.

References:

• National Library of Medicine. (2022). Motion Sickness. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/motionsickness.html.

• Voyer, D., & Voyer, S. D. (2015). Gender differences in incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting related to motion sickness. Biological psychology, 110, 60-68.

• Guppy, A., & Mick, G. (2013). Motion sickness. Australian Prescriber, 36(1), 10-15.

• Hu, S., & Stritzel, R. (2016). A review of treatment options for motion sickness. The Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 50(9), 686-691.

• Kim, S. J., Park, H. J., & Lee, H. (2013). Acupuncture for motion sickness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Integrative Medicine Research, 2(4), 133-141.

• Chen, Y. Y., & Li, H. M. (2014). The effectiveness of acupressure on relieving motion sickness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Travel Medicine, 21(5), 297-303.

• Xiang, Y., Li, X. Q., Zhang, Y., Liu, X. H., & Chen, Z. X. (2015). Acupuncture for motion sickness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015, 1-14.