Prevention

To prevent nausea

• Avoid substances or activities that are known to produce nausea, such as drinking alcohol.

• If you have motion sickness in a boat or automobile, it is often helpful to focus on a stationary object on the horizon. Move to the top and middle of the boat and focus on the horizon or aisle seat in an airplane where there is less side to side movement. Sit in a car (front seat) or train facing forward to keep your eyes and ears sensing the same thing. Look into the distance.

• Over-the-counter medications such as Dramamine may help prevent motion sickness. Follow label instructions.

To prevent vomiting

• Vomiting is a normal reflex in many situations but can become excessive as the result of severe nausea. Sip small amounts of clear fluid and rest in a calm environment.

To prevent dehydration

• Drink as much clear liquid as possible when vomiting. This may require taking very small amounts at a time.

• For children, it may require the caregiver to put small amounts of fluid, ice chips, or popsicles in their mouth repeatedly.