Air Sickness: Causes, Remedies, and Prevention

Air sickness is a specific form of motion sickness that occurs when traveling by airplane. It can make flying an uncomfortable experience, leading to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, headache, and cold sweats. While it is typically mild, severe cases can cause incapacitation, making it essential to recognize and manage symptoms effectively.

What Causes Air Sickness?

Air sickness happens when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear, eyes, and muscles—key components that help regulate equilibrium and balance. When these signals don't align, the brain struggles to process motion correctly, leading to symptoms of nausea and discomfort.

Some underlying factors can make air sickness worse:

  • Inner ear issues – Conditions like an ear infection or loose crystals in the inner ear can affect balance.
  • Eye problems – Vision problems can contribute to disorientation.
  • Dehydration – Not drinking enough fluids before and during a flight can increase susceptibility.
  • Anxiety and stress – Nervousness about flying can make symptoms more pronounced.
  • Fatigue – Being overtired can make motion sickness worse.
  • Alcohol and medication – Certain prescription drugs, alcohol, and recreational drugs can heighten air sickness symptoms.
  • Hormonal changes – Pregnant women and those menstruating may be more susceptible.
  • Young children – Kids, especially those under 12, are more likely to experience motion sickness.

Symptoms of Air Sickness

Common symptoms of air sickness include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Cold sweats
  • Headache
  • Fatigue and sleepiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pale skin
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating

For most people, air sickness subsides once the flight is over, but severe cases may require treatment.

When to See a Doctor

While most cases of air sickness are mild and manageable, see a doctor if:

  • Symptoms persist long after the flight.
  • You experience severe dizziness, confusion, or fainting.
  • You have a history of vertigo or balance disorders.

Your doctor may suggest prescription medication or further evaluation for underlying conditions affecting balance.

Home Remedies and Prevention Tips

Air sickness is unpleasant but manageable with the right strategies. Simple adjustments like choosing the right seat, staying hydrated, eating light meals, and using natural remedies like ginger and lemon can make a big difference. OTC medications and acupressure bands provide additional support for those who need it. Taking proactive steps can make your next flight much more comfortable!

Choose the Right Seat

Where you sit on the plane affects how much motion you feel. The smoothest ride is over the wing, where turbulence is less noticeable. Avoid seats near the rear of the aircraft, where movement is more pronounced.

Face Forward and Focus on a Distant Object

If possible, sit facing forward to minimize disorientation. Avoid reading or staring at screens, as this can worsen nausea. Instead, focus on a fixed point in the distance, like the horizon or a faraway object.

Keep Air Flowing

Fresh air can help reduce nausea. Open the overhead air vent and direct the flow toward your face to stay cool and minimize discomfort.

Avoid Large or Heavy Meals Before Flying

Eating greasy, spicy, or heavy meals before a flight can increase nausea. Instead, eat a light, balanced meal a few hours before departure. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can worsen dehydration and nausea.

Ginger: A Natural Remedy for Air Sickness

Ginger is one of the most effective natural remedies for motion sickness. Try:

  • Sipping ginger tea or ginger ale before and during the flight.
  • Chewing on fresh ginger or ginger candies.
  • Take ginger capsules (250-1000 mg) about 30 minutes before boarding.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration worsens air sickness. Drink plenty of water before and during your flight. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Snacking on Dry Foods

Eating small, bland snacks can help settle your stomach. Try:

  • Dry crackers
  • Pretzels
  • Plain toast or rice cakes

Carbonated Drinks for Nausea Relief

Sipping on a carbonated beverage can help relieve nausea. Ginger ale is the best option, but cola or lemon-lime soda may help if unavailable.

Lemon for Quick Relief

Lemon can help settle an upset stomach and reduce nausea. Try:

  • Sucking on a lemon wedge before and during the flight.
  • Sniffing a fresh-cut lemon for a quick anti-nausea effect.

Aromatherapy for Motion Sickness

Certain essential oils can ease nausea and dizziness. Try:

  • Peppermint oil – Inhale from a cotton ball or apply a few drops to your wrists.
  • Lavender oil – Helps with relaxation and stress-induced nausea.
  • Ginger oil – Offers the same benefits as fresh ginger.

Acupressure Bands

Wrist acupressure bands, often used for motion sickness and morning sickness, apply gentle pressure to the P6 (Nei Guan) acupoint on the wrist. These are inexpensive and can be worn throughout the flight.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Solutions For Air Sickness

If natural remedies aren't enough, OTC medications can help prevent and relieve air sickness symptoms.

Antihistamines (Best for Prevention)

  • Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) – Effective for preventing nausea but may cause drowsiness.
  • Bonine (Meclizine) – Works similarly but with less drowsiness.
  • Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) – May help, but it can be sedating.

Motion Sickness Patches

  • Scopolamine patches – A prescription patch placed behind the ear helps prevent motion sickness. It must be applied several hours before travel.

Dramamine or Ginger Chewable or Dissolvable Tablets

  • Dramamine Chewables – Easy to take without water.
  • Sea-Band Ginger Lozenges – A natural alternative for nausea relief.

Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Air Sickness

Manage Stress and Anxiety

If you get nervous about flying, stress can make air sickness worse. Try:

  • Breathing exercises – Deep, slow breathing helps calm the nervous system.
  • Listening to music or a podcast – Keeps your mind distracted.
  • Using relaxation techniques – Progressive muscle relaxation or meditation can help.

Sleep Well Before Your Flight

Fatigue can worsen air sickness. Try to get a full night's sleep before your flight to reduce symptoms.

Minimize Screen Time During the Flight

Reading, watching movies, or scrolling on your phone can make nausea worse. Instead, listen to audiobooks, music, or guided meditations to pass the time.