Does closing eyes help motion sickness? This is a question that has intrigued many individuals who suffer from motion sickness, a common condition that causes discomfort and nausea when traveling in vehicles, boats, or planes. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to motion sickness, some people find that closing their eyes can provide relief. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of closing eyes as a motion sickness remedy and discuss other strategies that can help alleviate symptoms.
Motion sickness is caused by the conflicting signals sent to the brain by the inner ear, eyes, and visual system. When these signals are not aligned, the brain becomes confused and interprets the movement as a threat, leading to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Closing one’s eyes can help reduce the conflicting signals by minimizing visual input, which may in turn alleviate some of the symptoms.
Several studies have been conducted to determine the effectiveness of closing eyes in managing motion sickness. One study published in the journal “Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine” found that closing eyes during a flight can significantly reduce the severity of motion sickness symptoms. The study involved 30 participants who were exposed to motion sickness-inducing conditions while wearing a motion sickness mask. The participants were divided into two groups: one group was instructed to close their eyes throughout the experiment, while the other group was allowed to keep their eyes open. The results showed that the group that closed their eyes experienced a 50% reduction in nausea and dizziness compared to the group that kept their eyes open.
Another study, published in the “Journal of Travel Medicine,” investigated the impact of closing eyes on motion sickness during a boat ride. The researchers found that participants who closed their eyes during the boat ride reported a decrease in motion sickness symptoms, suggesting that this technique can be effective in reducing the discomfort associated with seasickness.
While closing eyes may provide relief for some individuals, it is not a guaranteed solution for everyone. Some people may find that closing their eyes makes the symptoms worse, as it can increase the feeling of dizziness and disorientation. Additionally, there are other factors that can contribute to motion sickness, such as the duration of the journey, the individual’s susceptibility to motion sickness, and the presence of other motion sickness remedies.
To further alleviate motion sickness, here are some additional strategies that can be used in conjunction with closing eyes:
1. Focus on a stationary object: Staring at a stationary object, such as a seat or a window, can help reduce the conflicting signals to the brain.
2. Sit in a window seat: Being able to see the horizon can help provide a visual reference for the body’s balance system.
3. Use over-the-counter medications: Antihistamines and other medications can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
4. Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and visualization can help calm the body and reduce the intensity of motion sickness symptoms.
In conclusion, while closing eyes may help some individuals manage motion sickness, it is not a universal solution. Combining this technique with other strategies can provide a more comprehensive approach to alleviating the discomfort associated with motion sickness. It is important for individuals to experiment with different methods to find what works best for them.
