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French pharmacy
What is kinetosis?
Kinetosis, also known as motion sickness, is characterized by a set of unpleasant symptoms that occur when the balance sensory system is disturbed by constant movement. This disorder can affect individuals when traveling by car, plane, watercraft or even on carousel-type attractions. Common symptoms include nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, headaches and a general feeling of unease.
What are the main causes of kinetosis?
Kinetosis is caused by a conflict between sensory inputs perceived by the eyes, inner ears, and deep receptors sensitive to body position and movement. For example, when reading a book in a moving car, the eyes focus on a stationary page, while the inner ear and body receptors sense the vehicle's movements. This discrepancy in the information received can cause confusion in the brain, resulting in symptoms of motion sickness.
How can kinetosis be prevented?
Several strategies can help prevent kinetosis. Before and during the journey, avoid eating heavy foods or strong-smelling foods. Choose seats where movement is less felt, such as the middle of an airplane or the lower deck on a boat. Staring at the horizon or closing your eyes can also help reduce symptoms. Anti-nausea medication can be taken in consultation with a physician. In addition, devices such as anti-nausea bracelets, which exert pressure on certain acupuncture points, can also offer relief.
What treatments are available to manage kinetosis?
In addition to behavioral preventions, there are effective drug treatments for kinetosis. Antihistamines such as Dimenhydrinate and Meclozine can be used to prevent and treat symptoms. These drugs work by stabilizing nerve activity in the inner ear and reducing central nervous system sensitivity. It's important to note that these drugs can cause drowsiness and other side effects. For non-drug solutions, therapies such as biofeedback and vestibular rehabilitation exercises can be explored.
Does kinetosis affect everyone equally?
No, sensitivity to kinetosis varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience severe symptoms very quickly, while others never experience any symptoms at all. Genetic factors, age (children are more susceptible), and even gender (women may be more susceptible during certain hormonal phases) can influence susceptibility to kinetosis.
Are there differences in kinetosis depending on the mode of transport?
Yes, kinetosis can vary considerably depending on the mode of transport. In cars, kinetosis is often caused by repetitive movements such as sharp turns or ascents and descents. At sea, constant rocking can cause what's known as seasickness. Air travel can also induce symptoms, especially during turbulence. Each type of transport may require specific prevention and treatment strategies to minimize kinetosis symptoms.
Are children more likely to suffer from kinetosis? Why are they more likely to suffer from kinetosis?
Children, especially those between the ages of 2 and 12, are indeed more susceptible to kinetosis. This heightened sensitivity can be attributed to their still-developing vestibular system. What's more, children spend a lot of time playing with activities that require them to fix their gaze, such as reading or using tablets, which can contribute to the onset of symptoms when they're on the move.
Can kinetosis be permanently cured?
While there is no definitive "cure" for kinetosis, a number of methods can help to effectively manage and minimize its symptoms. Adaptation through repeated exposure to triggering situations can reduce sensitivity over time. Therapeutic approaches, such as the vestibular rehabilitation mentioned above, can also help individuals better manage their responses to movement.
Can stress or anxiety aggravate kinetosis?
Indeed, stress and anxiety can exacerbate kinetosis symptoms. Anxiety can intensify the sensitivity of the nervous system, making a person more reactive to discordant sensory stimuli during movement. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can be helpful in controlling anxiety and reducing motion sickness sensations.
How effective are natural remedies for kinetosis?
Some natural remedies can offer relief from kinetosis without the side effects often associated with traditional drugs. Ginger, for example, is widely recognized for its anti-nausea properties and can be consumed in various forms (tea, capsules, candy). Other options include peppermint and lavender. However, the effectiveness of these remedies can vary from person to person, and their use must be adapted to individual needs and reactions.
