kinetosis

Kinetosis, commonly known as motion sickness, is a condition that occurs when there is a mismatch between motion signals detected by the inner ear and visual signals from the eyes. This sensory conflict can arise during travel in cars, ships, airplanes, on amusement rides, or when using virtual reality environments.

The underlying mechanism is not fully understood, but the prevailing explanation is sensory conflict: the brain receives contradictory information about movement, leading to autonomic symptoms. Risk factors include a history of motion sickness in childhood, female sex, migraine, vestibular disorders, and anxiety. Symptoms typically begin within minutes to a few hours after exposure and may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, pallor, cold sweat, yawning, headache, and fatigue. Some people also experience blurred vision or general unease.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and symptom pattern. Other causes of nausea and dizziness, such as gastroenteritis, inner ear disorders, or medication side effects, may be considered if the presentation is atypical or persistent.

Prevention and management emphasize behavioral strategies and medications. Behavioral approaches include looking toward the horizon, facing the direction of travel, avoiding reading, ensuring good ventilation, avoiding heavy meals or alcohol before travel, and using distraction or relaxation techniques. Pharmacologic options include antihistamines such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate and scopolamine transdermal patches; antiemetics like promethazine or ondansetron may be used for more severe symptoms. Ginger and acupressure bands are used by some individuals, though evidence varies.

Most episodes resolve after movement stops, and the condition is not life-threatening, though recurrent kinetosis can affect quality of life and travel behavior.