Motion Sickness in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

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.

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.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If possible, have your child press their head into a headrest. This keeps the head still.
• In a plane, try to have your child sit near the wings.
• In 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.
• If your doctor gave you a prescription medicine for your child, give it exactly as prescribed. Be aware that these medicines may make your child sleepy. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with their medicine.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has nausea and vomiting that does not go away after treatment.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child's symptoms do not go away within 3 days after a trip.
• Your child does not get better as expected.