Causes of Motion Sickness

If you have motion sickness, the idea of traveling or even getting to work can make you dread the upcoming experience. Motion sickness may cause you to experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness and vertigo. It can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology and the National Library of Medicine, causes of motion sickness include personal habits and disorders of the inner ear.

Blood Disorders

• Blood disorders, such as high blood pressure, anemia, hypoglycemia and high cholesterol, can decrease the amount of blood that gets to your brain, resulting in motion sickness.

Congestion

• Motion sickness may be caused by a buildup of fluid in the inner ear that results from allergies, sinus infections or colds.

Injuries

• An injury to your head can fracture or damage the bones of your inner ear, leading to temporary or permanent motion sickness as well as possible loss of hearing.

Infections

• An infection in your ear or inflammation of the bones of your ear can cause temporary motion sickness, which can become permanent if the infection is not treated.

Personal Habits

• Eating an excess amount of salt, becoming stressed before traveling, and using caffeine, nicotine or alcohol can trigger motion sickness.

Rapid Movement

• Suddenly turning your head or moving while you are on a train, plane or boat may trigger motion sickness, especially if you cannot see outside of the vehicle.