Our best tips for combating seasickness
You have planned a dream cruise vacation. You have visualized the crystal-clear waters, imagined the exotic stops, and anticipated the relaxing moments on the deck. But, there is that little voice in your head that whispers: what if my stomach decides to spoil the party?
Imagine yourself: The sun is slowly setting on the horizon, you feel like you are living in the moment. But suddenly, an unexpected swell reminds you that your body is not entirely in agreement with this beautiful maritime romance. Nausea threatens, cold sweats appear, and you wonder: why now?
Don't panic. Seasickness, that desynchronized dance between your brain and the waves, can affect the best of us!
But with a few simple and effective tips, you can tame this sensation and regain control of your sea voyage.
With Orca Retail, get ready to discover how to prevent and treat seasickness, so you can enjoy every moment of your vacation in complete serenity.
Where does seasickness come from? Causes
It all starts from your inner ear. Imagine it as a miniature gyroscope that allows your body to orient itself in space and maintain its balance. During a boat trip, the ship's movements disrupt this sensitive system, sending conflicting signals to the brain.
On one hand, your eyes perceive a stable environment: the boat seems still and the horizon does not move. On the other hand, your inner ear, tossed by the waves, senses significant movements.
This information discrepancy creates sensory confusion in the brain, leading to motion sickness or seasickness.
What are the symptoms of seasickness?
Unable to reconcile these conflicting pieces of information, the brain becomes disoriented. It then triggers a series of physiological reactions to try to restore balance, hence the unpleasant symptoms of seasickness:
- Nausea, vomiting, hypersalivation: the body tries to rid itself of substances it thinks are responsible for the discomfort.
- Paleness and cold sweats: signs of disturbance in the autonomic nervous system.
- Fatigue, drowsiness: the body fights against the imbalance and uses energy to adapt.
- Headaches, migraines: nervous tension can manifest as headaches.
These symptoms can vary in intensity from one person to another and are generally more pronounced at the beginning of the journey, often subsiding after a few days at sea.
How to act in advance to prevent seasickness?
To minimize the risk of seasickness, it is recommended to take several preventive measures:
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Cabin choice: Opt for a cabin located in the middle of the ship, where movements are less felt.
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Stress management: Reduce anxiety by arriving early at the port and relaxing on the boat. Breathe deeply and regularly to calm your nervous system.
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Position on the boat: Stay outside as much as possible, focusing on the horizon to limit the sensation of movement. Avoid reading or using electronic devices that could increase symptoms.
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Clothing and hydration: Dress comfortably for the sea climate and make sure to stay hydrated throughout the trip.
- Diet: Eat light meals before and during the journey to avoid having an empty or too full stomach, which can worsen symptoms. Also, avoid fatty and heavy foods.
Foods to avoid (rich in histamine or irritating to the stomach):
- Canned or prepared meals
- Alcohol, red wine
- Cocoa, chocolate
- Black and green tea
- Seafood
- Nuts
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
- Legumes
- Citrus fruits
- Cheese
- Soy
- Yeast and wheat-based products
- Fresh meat and white fish (irritating to the stomach, increase gastric acid)
Recommended foods:
- Bananas
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (except citrus fruits)
- Raw carrots
- Light soups
- Rusks
- Infusions of chamomile, mint, and ginger
How to treat seasickness after symptoms appear?
Natural remedies and alternative medicine
Soothing essential oils
Essential oils like peppermint and ginger are known for their anti-nausea properties. Apply a few drops of peppermint or ginger essential oil on a handkerchief or a portable diffuser and breathe deeply to relieve nausea.
Acupressure bands
Acupressure bands are specially designed bracelets with a small ball that applies pressure on the P6/Nei-Kuan acupuncture point, located about two finger-widths behind the wrist. This point is known in traditional Chinese medicine for combating nausea by regulating body energy. Wear these bracelets around the wrists for continuous stimulation and relief from seasickness symptoms.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is effective in breaking down the neurotransmitter histamine, often associated with allergic reactions and nausea. Professor Dr. Reinhart Jarisch has confirmed its effectiveness in several studies. Start taking vitamin C one week before your sea journey, at a dose of one to two grams per day. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, as well as peppers and currants, are good natural sources of vitamin C. You can also take it in capsule form for ease of use during the cruise.
Ginger
Besides its olfactory properties, ginger can also be ingested to reduce nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats. It was used in ancient maritime practices, often chewed in pieces to combat seasickness. Today, it is available in various forms such as ginger tea, ginger candies, candied ginger, and even in ginger powder capsules like Zintona. Ginger acts similarly to antihistamines while being gentler on the stomach.
Medications
For more severe or recurrent cases, medications like metopimazine, antihistamines, or scopolamine can be prescribed. These medications work by reducing symptoms of nausea and dizziness, but they can cause drowsiness and require a medical prescription.
Metopimazine (Vogalib®)
This medication is effective in reducing vomiting associated with seasickness.
Antihistamines (Mercalm®, Nausicalm® or Nautamine®)
These medications are recommended to reduce the risk of nausea. It is crucial to consult a doctor before use, as some antihistamines are not suitable for children under 2 years, or even under 6 years.
Scopolamine (Scopoderm®)
This medication works by blocking the transmission of disturbing information from the inner ear to the brain, which helps prevent seasickness. It requires a medical prescription to be obtained and used safely.
Conclusion
So, ready to set sail without fearing seasickness?
With these simple tips at hand, you can say goodbye to worries and hello to a smooth cruise.
May your sea adventures be filled with joy and discoveries, savor every moment, in complete tranquility. Fair winds and safe travels!
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