Motion sickness on amusement park rides can turn an exciting experience into an uncomfortable one. This condition occurs when our eyes, inner ears, muscles, and joints sense motion changes and send mixed signals to the brain, leading to disorientation, queasiness, dizziness, and in severe cases, vomiting. The advice for managing motion sickness on rides is also applicable to other forms of travel, such as boats, trains, planes, and cars. To mitigate motion sickness, you can use medications or make lifestyle adjustments, such as changes in diet and body positioning.
Method 1: Taking Medication for Motion Sickness
Step 1: Get Over-the-Counter Dramamine
Dimenhydrinate, commonly known by the brand name Dramamine, is an antihistamine that can help prevent and treat motion sickness. It’s available in both drowsy and non-drowsy formulations. The non-drowsy version is preferable for amusement parks, while the drowsy version can be useful for long-distance travel where sleeping is an option. For best results, take the medication 30 minutes to an hour before you go to the amusement park. Adults and children over 12 can usually take dimenhydrinate every four to six hours as needed, while children under 12 should follow a doctor’s advice regarding dosage.
Step 2: Acquire a Scopolamine Patch
If over-the-counter medications don’t work for you, consider talking to your doctor about a scopolamine patch. This prescription medication is typically used when other treatments are ineffective. The patch is applied behind the ear at least four hours before it’s needed and can prevent motion sickness for an extended period. Be sure to discuss potential side effects with your doctor, which can include drowsiness, dry mouth, and in rare cases, hallucinations.
Step 3: Apply the Scopolamine Patch Correctly
To use a scopolamine patch, clean the area behind your ear, remove the patch from its protective packaging, and apply it to your skin. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Follow the instructions on the package regarding how long to keep the patch on.
Step 4: Try Ginger Supplements
Ginger is a natural remedy known for its anti-nausea properties. You can consume it raw or in supplement form, such as lozenges or pills. Ginger supplements are available at most grocery stores and pharmacies. If using raw ginger, peel and dice it into small cubes for easy consumption. Keep in mind that ginger’s strong aftertaste may be unpleasant for some people, making supplements a more palatable option.
Method 2: Riding Strategically to Avoid Motion Sickness
Step 1: Eat Something to Settle Your Stomach
Before or after a ride, eat bland, carbohydrate-rich foods like crackers or ginger ale to soothe your stomach. Avoid spicy and acidic foods, which can irritate your stomach lining and exacerbate motion sickness.
Step 2: Sit in the Most Stable Part of the Ride
The middle of the ride is generally the most stable part. This applies to roller coasters, where the front and back tend to experience more motion. In cars, the front seat is the most stable, while on boats and planes, the middle provides the least amount of motion.
Step 3: Keep Your Head and Neck Straight
Keeping your head and neck straight helps prevent conflicting signals from reaching your brain, which can reduce motion sickness. This is particularly important on roller coasters to avoid head and neck injuries.
Step 4: Focus Your Eyes on a Fixed Point
Keeping your eyes fixed on a stable object can help reduce dizziness. On a roller coaster, focus on the car in front of you or close your eyes if it helps. On a boat, stare at the horizon to mitigate sea sickness.
Step 5: Reduce Your Activity
Minimize activities that can worsen motion sickness, such as reading or watching movies, especially on planes, trains, and boats. Sit back and relax instead.
Step 6: Apply Pressure to Your P6 Point
The P6 acupuncture point, located on the inner wrist, can relieve nausea. Press on this point, or use a wristband designed to apply pressure to it. Some scientific studies support the effectiveness of this method.
Tips
- Remember You’re in a Safe Environment: Amusement park rides are designed to thrill but are thoroughly tested for safety. Understanding this can help reduce fear.
- Stay Physically Fit: Being in good physical shape can help reduce stress and make it more likely you will fit comfortably in ride seats.
- Seek Support: Ride with friends or family who can provide encouragement and reassurance.
By following these strategies, you can manage motion sickness effectively and enjoy your time on amusement park rides and other forms of transportation.