Introduction
If you're planning a cruise vacation, one of the concerns you might have is seasickness.
Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common issue faced by many passengers on cruise ships.
The good news is that there are numerous remedies and preventative measures you can take to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience. In this blog post, we'll explore the best seasickness remedies for cruising, from natural solutions to over-the-counter medications and high-tech gadgets.
Understanding Seasickness
Seasickness occurs when the body's sense of balance and spatial orientation are disrupted by the continuous motion of the ship.
This can cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Some people are more prone to seasickness than others, and factors such as age, gender, and personal susceptibility can play a role.
However, anyone can experience seasickness to some degree.
Natural Remedies
Before reaching for medication, consider trying some natural remedies that are known to help alleviate seasickness.
These methods are safe, effective, and often free of side effects.
a) Ginger: Ginger has long been used as a remedy for nausea and motion sickness.
It is available in various forms, such as ginger ale, ginger tea, ginger candy, and ginger supplements. Consuming ginger before and during your cruise can help prevent and alleviate seasickness.
b)Acupressure, an ancient Chinese practice, involves putting pressure on specific locations on the body to address pain or other disturbances. This traditional form of healing has been used for centuries and is believed to provide relief.
In the case of seasickness, an acupressure point called P6, or Nei Guan, can be used. It's located on the inner wrist, about three finger-widths below the base of the palm. Applying pressure to this point can help alleviate nausea and vomiting.
c) Green Apples: Eating green apples can help alleviate nausea due to their high levels of pectin, a soluble fiber that helps to settle the stomach. Additionally, their tart flavor can help to distract you from feeling nauseous.
d) Peppermint: Peppermint is another natural remedy that can help with seasickness. It can be consumed in various forms, such as tea, candies, or essential oil. The scent of peppermint can also be helpful; simply inhaling the aroma can help alleviate nausea.
Over-The-Counter Medications
If natural remedies don't provide sufficient relief, over-the-counter medications can be a great option.
These medications are designed to treat and prevent motion sickness and are generally safe for most people.
However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any pre-existing medical conditions.
a) Antihistamines: Antihistamines, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and meclizine (Bonine), are commonly used to treat motion sickness.
They work by blocking the signals in the inner ear that cause dizziness and nausea. These medications should be taken 30 minutes to an hour before the cruise begins and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed.
Side effects may include drowsiness, so it's essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking these medications.
b) Scopolamine: Scopolamine is another medication that can help prevent and treat motion sickness. It is available as a patch (Transderm Scop) that is applied to the skin behind the ear.
The patch should be applied at least 4 hours before the start of the cruise and can be worn for up to three days. Side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision.
Prescription Medications
If OTC medications fail to provide the needed relief for seasickness, it is best to speak with a healthcare provider about stronger prescription medications. These options are often effective but can have possible side effects so discussing them fully with a healthcare professional is key.
a) Promethazine: Promethazine (Phenergan) is a prescription antihistamine that can help treat severe cases of motion sickness.
It is usually taken orally or as a rectal suppository, but it can also be administered as an injection in some cases.
Promethazine can cause drowsiness, so it's important to avoid activities that require alertness while using this medication.
b) Ondansetron: Ondansetron (Zofran) is a prescription medication that is typically used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, it can also be used off-label to treat severe motion sickness.
Ondansetron is available in various forms, including oral tablets, dissolving tablets, and injectable forms.
High-Tech Gadgets
Technology has also contributed to the prevention and treatment of seasickness.
Several high-tech gadgets are available on the market that claim to help reduce or eliminate the symptoms of motion sickness.
a) Electronic Relief Bands: Electronic relief bands are wearable devices that use electrical pulses to stimulate the median nerve at the P6 acupressure point on the wrist.
This stimulation can help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with seasickness. Some popular electronic relief bands include Reliefband and EmeTerm. These devices are usually rechargeable and can be adjusted to different intensity levels according to your needs.
b) Virtual Reality (VR) Systems: Some virtual reality systems, such as the Samsung Gear VR and the Oculus Rift, have been used to help train people to overcome seasickness by exposing them to simulated ship movements in a controlled environment.
Although this method may not be practical during a cruise, it can be a helpful tool in preparing for your voyage.
Prevention And Coping Strategies
In addition to the remedies mentioned above, there are several strategies that you can employ to prevent or minimize the symptoms of seasickness.
a) Choose the right cabin: The location of your cabin on the ship can impact your susceptibility to motion sickness. Cabins located near the center of the ship and on lower decks typically experience less motion, making them a better choice for those prone to seasickness.
b) Look at the horizon: Focusing on a stable point, such as the horizon, can help your brain recalibrate and adjust to the motion of the ship.
c) Maintain a consistent eating schedule: Eating small, regular meals can help stabilize your stomach and prevent nausea. Avoid heavy or greasy foods, as they can exacerbate motion sickness.
d) Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of seasickness, so it's essential to drink plenty of water throughout your cruise.
e) Get fresh air: Spending time on the open deck can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms by providing fresh air and a view of the horizon.
f) Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms, so it's best to avoid or limit alcoholic beverages while cruising.
Conclusion
Seasickness can be an unpleasant experience, but with the right remedies and strategies in place, it doesn't have to ruin your cruise vacation.
By trying natural remedies, using over-the-counter or prescription medications, or even investing in high-tech gadgets, you can prevent or alleviate seasickness symptoms and enjoy a smooth and comfortable voyage.
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medications, and always listen to your body to determine what works best for you. Happy cruising!
Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.
Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.
Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.
Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.
Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.
