Seasickness is a condition that is caused by the motion of waves. It can occur when you are on a ship, boat, or other vessel, and can also be caused by riding in a car or airplane. Symptoms of seasickness include nausea, vomiting, sweating, headaches, and dizziness.
Get plenty of rest before your dive trip
If you are well-rested before your scuba dive trip, you will be less likely to get seasick. Make sure to get plenty of sleep the night before your trip, and avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine beforehand.
Eat a light meal before diving
Eating a heavy meal before diving can make you more prone to seasickness. Stick to light foods that are easy to digest, such as fruits and vegetables, yogurt, or whole grain toast. Avoid fatty foods, spicy foods, and anything else that might upset your stomach.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can make seasickness worse, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you. Drink plenty of water or juice, and carry a reusable water bottle with you on the boat.
Get some fresh air
Fresh air can help to relieve seasickness. If you start to feel nauseous, go up to the deck and take in some deep breaths of fresh air. Avoid being in enclosed spaces below deck where there is little ventilation.
Avoid reading or working on the computer
Reading, working on the computer, or any other activities that require you to focus your eyes can make seasickness worse. If possible, take a break from these activities and rest your eyes periodically throughout the day.
Try over-the-counter medications
There are several over-the-counter medications that can help to prevent or treat seasickness. These include Dramamine, Bonine, and Meclizine. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and talk to your doctor before taking any medications.
Wear acupressure wristbands
Acupressure wristbands are designed to apply pressure to the P6 point on your wrist, which is said to help relieve nausea. These can be found at most drugstores or online.
Try ginger root supplements
Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea. You can take ginger root in capsule form, or drink ginger tea or ale. Ginger chews are also available, and can be helpful in relieving seasickness symptoms.
Practice deep breathing exercises
Deep breathing exercises can help to relax your body and ease nausea. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Repeat this several times. You can also try alternate nostril breathing, which is said to be helpful in relieving seasickness.
Get up and move around periodically
Sitting or lying down for long periods of time can make seasickness worse. Every so often, get up and walk around the deck or cabin. This will help to keep your blood flowing and ease nausea.
The causes of seasickness
There are several theories about what causes seasickness, but it is still not fully understood. It is thought that it is caused by a conflict between what you see and what you feel. Your eyes tell your brain that you are moving, but your inner ear and other receptors in your body tell your brain that you are stationary. This conflict can cause the symptoms of seasickness.
Home remedies for seasickness
There are several home remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of seasickness. These include ginger root, peppermint, and lavender.
Ginger root: Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea. You can take ginger in capsule form, or drink ginger tea or ale. Ginger chews are also available, and can be helpful in relieving seasickness symptoms.
Peppermint: Peppermint oil is said to be helpful in relieving nausea. You can inhale peppermint oil directly from the bottle, or add a few drops to a handkerchief and smell it as needed.
Lavender: Lavender oil is another essential oil that can be helpful in relieving nausea. You can add a few drops of lavender oil to a handkerchief and inhale it as needed, or add it to a diffuser and breathe in the soothing scent.
Acupressure: Applying pressure to the P6 point on your wrist is said to help relieve nausea. You can do this yourself, or wear an acupressure wristband.
Deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help to relax your body and ease nausea. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Repeat this several times. You can also try alternate nostril breathing, which is said to be helpful in relieving seasickness.
