Motion Sickness in Children: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Motion sickness is nausea that is usually caused by travel in a car, plane, train, or boat. It is sometimes called carsickness, airsickness, or seasickness. Some people also get it if they do things like play video games or look through a microscope.

Motion sickness can make your child vomit or sweat. It can also cause a headache. These symptoms usually go away soon after the motion stops. But sometimes it takes a few days.

You can treat your child's motion sickness with over-the-counter medicine or prescription medicine. You may also try having your child take ginger or wear acupressure wrist bands.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If possible, have your child press his or her head into a headrest. This keeps the head still.
• In a plane, try to have your child sit near the wings.
• If you stay overnight on a boat, have your child try to stay in the middle of the boat.
• In a car, boat, or plane, try to make sure that your child:
  • Looks at one place far away, such as the horizon.
  • Gets as much fresh air as possible.
  • Does not read or watch TV.
  • Eats a small meal ahead of time.
• If your child feels sick, try a few crackers and a fizzy drink.
• Try ginger, ginger tea, or ginger ale before your child travels.
• Ask your doctor if it's okay to give your child an over-the-counter medicine. These include dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and meclizine (Bonine). These medicines are taken about an hour before travel. They may make your child feel sleepy.
• Get a prescription medicine from your doctor. Be safe with medicines. Give your child medicines exactly as prescribed. Be aware that these medicines may make your child sleepy.