How to Combat Sea Sickness

There are several ways to prevent and alleviate seasickness symptoms.

If you've ever experienced seasickness or seen others go through it, you'll probably be eager to know how to combat it. There are a variety of preventative measures and remedies available, and it's best to find what works best for you. While some people may swear by one treatment, others will find that other remedies work better. The most important thing is to keep trying until you find something effective. Don't let seasickness get in the way of having a good time while cruising or sailing.

Things You'll Need

• Ginger or ginger products
• Drinking water
• B6 Supplements
• Bonine, Dramamine, or Scopolamine patches or pills
• Acupressure motion sickness wrist bands

Instructions

1. Prevent seasickness before it occurs with some simple measures such as making sure to be well-rested and well-fed on foods that are not greasy and that are low in acid, such as croissants, milk, muffins and bananas. Drink lots of water and avoid drinking alcohol.

2. Treat seasickness with some natural supplements, such as ginger and vitamin B-6. Ginger, by itself or in foods such as cookies or crackers, has been shown to relieve nausea in pregnant women and may possibly help motion sickness on the water. Crackers with ginger can also help absorb stomach acid. Vitamin B-6 has also been shown to decrease symptoms of nausea in pregnant women. The recommended dosage of B6 to treat nausea and vomiting is 10 to 25 mg, three times per day.

3. Try a natural wrist band remedy. A wrist band applies pressure to an acupressure point an inch and a half above the wrist on the underside of the forearm, which is supposed to alleviate nausea and vomiting. You can find such a wrist band at biobands.com.

4. Take a motion-sickness medication, such as the antihistamines Bonine and Dramamine, both of which can be bought without a prescription. Dramamine may cause drowsiness, but not Bonine, although there are non-drowsy versions available for both medications. Take the medication before symptoms of seasickness even come on, usually about two hours before your trip on the water. Scopolamine is another medication option and is available in two forms, as patches, which are worn behind the ear and can last for three days with time release, and as a pill. Check with a doctor before taking these or any medications.

5. Avoid staying still in enclosed spaces such as a cabin. Go for a walk in the fresh air instead, staying in the center of the ship or boat, where rocking motion will be at its lowest level, and look out at the horizon. On smaller boats or ships, you may be able to steer, which can help bring relief to nausea symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your doctor before taking medications, especially if you're already on a medication.

References

• Advice with Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee: Cruise Sea Sickness Remedies
• Goddess of the Sea Cruises: Seasickness and How to Prevent It