Summer is around the corner, and many families are planning a vacation. No matter how you’re getting there, one of the least appealing ways to travel is with a child who suffers from motion sickness. But there are ways to lessen the chance that you have a carsick (or seasick or other kind of motion sick) kiddo on your hands.
We connected with Dr. Mansi Lalwani, a pediatrician with Baylor Scott & White Family Medical Center – Mesquite, to get her tips for a smoother ride. (Spoiler: Put away your child’s device!)
DFWChild: Let’s start with steps parents can take in advance if they know their child is prone to motion sickness. Should parents pick up some of those motion sickness patches at the drug store?
Dr. Mansi Lalwani: I would not get the patches on my own—I would consult with the pediatrician. While [the patches] may be used to prevent post-operative nausea and vomiting, we do not routinely use them in kids to prevent motion sickness.
C: Are there medications kids can take? What about certain foods or drinks to avoid shortly before you go?
ML: Yes, there are medications such as Dramamine and Benadryl, which may be used to prevent motion sickness. But please talk to your doctor regarding their safety and dosage before giving these medications. And don’t do large meals pre-trip.
C: We hear a lot that if people sit in the front of a car, they’re less likely to feel sick. Obviously, that’s not safe for little kids. What else can you do while you’re in the car or something else that moves?
ML: In the car, have your child sit in the middle seat; this will [encourage] them look out the front window instead of the side window, which helps. Avoid reading or looking at screens while in a moving environment. In a boat, the lower deck and midship cabins are recommended. Rest and lie down. If your child happens to fall asleep, even better. Give only little sips of clear fluids and light meals, such as crackers.
C: Should parents make frequent stops if possible? Does that help?
ML: Yes. If the preventive measures do not help with the motion sickness, then the parent can stop the car, remove the child from the car seat and have him or her lie on the back for a few minutes with their eyes closed.
C: Of course, it’s best to be prepared—what supplies should parents have on hand in case the sickness materializes?
ML: Plastic or Ziploc bags for vomiting emergencies, water and light crackers.
C: Is motion sickness a random condition?
ML: There are some risk factors, such as sex and age, associated with motion sickness. [It’s most common in children and pregnant women.] And there is a genetic component to it.
Now you’re ready for your road trip, but where to go? Check out our roundup of great road trips from Dallas Fort Worth.
Image courtesy of iStock.
