Seasickness in Children

Sea sickness can happen at any age, but children are more likely than adults to experience it. Parents should prepare for the possibility ahead of time when going on a boat ride or cruise. It's a good idea to treat the symptoms as soon as possible. For a child who is very susceptible to sea sickness, this means giving medication before getting on the boat.

Cause

• The motion of being on water can disrupt an individual's internal sense of balance. The body reacts by becoming sick when what is seen doesn't match the motion sensed by the inner ear.

Time Frame

• Seasickness lasts for one or two days if a child is continually on a boat during that time. By the end of the second day, the body should have adjusted to the motion.

Identification

• Children who experience motion sickness in other situations are more likely to experience sea sickness. Be prepared for it to happen to kids who vomit often, get car sick or become queasy after amusement park rides.

Symptoms

• Babies and toddlers with sea sickness may stop eating and become fussy. Older children may experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness, excessive yawning and become sweaty.

Prevention/Solution

• The options for preventing or minimizing sea sickness in a child include getting a prescription medication or over-the-counter medication like Dramamine or Scopoderm, eating small and frequent meals and avoiding reading.