Sea Sickness

Sea Sickness, though not a true sickness or disease, is the normal response of an individual to unaccustomed motion of sufficient intensity and duration. Its cause is thought to be a mismatch between the actual and expected sensory input your sight and hearing.

The most common symptoms include nausea, pallor, cold sweating and vomiting. In addition, burping, sighing, yawning, hyperventilation, light headedness, and somnolence may also be experienced.

Symptoms are normally of slow onset, with a sudden intensification to vomiting which can often provide a temporary improvement and relief, however followed by a cyclical recurrence if the cause for the sickness continues.

The best way I have found to avoid sea sickness, is to fix your gaze upon a stable external reference point such as the horizon or some outcrop of land. Avoid searching and scanning tasks such as reading.

Also avoid lying down as this will bring on and accelerate the onset of symptoms. Try and stay busy and don't focus on your discomfort. The intake of water helps, as well as deep breaths.

Several remedies are available, ranging from "over the counter" and prescription drugs, to the humble ginger. Perhaps one of ginger's most valuable benefits is its ability to soothe the stomach and allay feelings of nausea.

Its no embarrassment for one to become sea sick. Even some of the most experienced mariners in the world become sea sick. Taking note of the above suggestions will hopefully minimise or negate the onset of sea sickness, allowing you to enjoy your outing.