What Is Motion Sickness?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Motion sickness is a condition characterized by a constellation of symptoms, primarily nausea and vomiting, which occur in response to certain types of movement. These symptoms can be highly dynamic and distressing, varying significantly in severity among individuals1. Other common symptoms include dizziness, sweating, pallor, and gastrointestinal distress9.

Causes and Mechanisms

Motion sickness arises when there is a sensory conflict between the visual, vestibular (inner ear), and proprioceptive (body position) systems. This conflict typically occurs during passive movement, such as traveling in a car, boat, or airplane, where the motion sensed by the inner ear does not match the motion perceived visually8. The condition can also be induced in virtual environments or simulators, known as visually induced motion sickness (VIMS)5 9.

Incidence and Susceptibility

The incidence of motion sickness varies widely depending on the mode of transport and individual susceptibility. For instance, a study found that 43% of healthy volunteers developed motion sickness during ambulance transport on a mountainous route3. Factors such as age, sex, and individual sensitivity to motion can influence susceptibility. Women and older adults are generally more prone to experiencing motion sickness5 10.

Psychological and Physiological Factors

Psychological factors, such as expectancy and conditioning, can also play a role in the severity of motion sickness symptoms. Studies have shown that verbal suggestions and conditioning procedures can modulate the symptoms, either exacerbating or alleviating them4. Physiologically, motion sickness is associated with autonomic nervous system activation and an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may contribute to the symptoms7.

Measurement and Assessment

The severity of motion sickness can be measured using various scales and questionnaires. The Motion Sickness Severity Scale (MSSS) is a validated instrument designed to provide a rapid and accurate assessment of core motion sickness symptoms1. Other tools include the Motion Sickness Assessment Questionnaire (MSAQ) and the Fast Motion Sickness Scale (FMS)5 9.

Conclusion

Motion sickness is a multifaceted condition influenced by sensory conflicts, individual susceptibility, and psychological factors. Understanding its mechanisms and accurately measuring its severity are crucial for developing effective interventions and improving the quality of life for those affected.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.