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Are You at Risk for Motion Sickness? 5 Surprising Factors
Published: Jul 17, 2024
Motion sickness can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk. Understanding these can help you prepare and prevent discomfort during travel.
Gender and Hormones: A Hidden Link
Interestingly, women are generally more susceptible to motion sickness than men. This difference becomes even more pronounced during pregnancy and certain phases of the menstrual cycle. Hormonal changes seem to play a role in increasing sensitivity to motion. It's like your body's chemistry can make you more prone to feeling queasy on the move.
Age Matters: The Childhood Peak
Children between the ages of 2 and 12 are particularly prone to motion sickness. Surprisingly, infants and toddlers under 2 are generally resistant. The incidence peaks around age 9 and then gradually decreases through adulthood. It's as if our sensitivity to motion follows a bell curve through our life stages.
Migraine Connection: Double Trouble
If you suffer from migraines, you're more likely to experience motion sickness too. Studies show that about 50% of migraine sufferers report a history of motion sickness, compared to only 20% of people with tension headaches. It's like having migraines gives your brain a lower threshold for tolerating conflicting motion signals.
Genetics: It's in Your DNA
Recent research has identified genetic variants associated with an increased susceptibility to motion sickness. A genome-wide study found 35 genes linked to motion sickness risk. This suggests that your tendency to get queasy on boats or in cars might be partly inherited. It's like motion sickness susceptibility could be a trait passed down in your family, similar to eye color or height.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some medications can increase susceptibility; consult your doctor if concerned.
Vision problems can contribute to motion sickness in some cases.
Yes, anxiety and stress can increase your susceptibility to motion sickness.
A full stomach can worsen symptoms for some, but others find it helpful.
Some studies suggest better fitness may reduce susceptibility, but more research is needed.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding your risk factors for motion sickness can help you take proactive steps to prevent or manage symptoms.
References
- Golding JF. Motion sickness susceptibility. Auton Neurosci 2006; 129:67.
- Marcus DA, Furman JM, Balaban CD. Motion sickness in migraine sufferers. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2005; 6:691.
- Hromatka BS, Tung JY, Kiefer AK, et al. Genetic variants associated with motion sickness point to roles for inner ear development, neurological processes and glucose homeostasis. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:2700.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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