Motion Sickness Flashcards
Why does motion sickness occur ?
Cause
Vestibular system gives brain sense of balance & motion
Brain received a conflict of messages from the senses – eyes &
vestibular system
What are the two types of motion sickness ?
Travel-associated motion sickness
Motion sickness without travel
Who is more likely to be affected by motion sickness ?
More common in:
.Women
.People affected by migraines
.Children 3-12 years old
What are the beginning symptoms of motion sickness ?
What are the more severe symptoms?
Additional symptoms?
When should we refer ?
Begins with:
Nausea; discomfort in upper abdomen; feeling of being unwell
More severe:
Pale skin; cold sweat; dizziness; fainting; increased production of saliva;
vomiting
Additional symptoms:
Rapid, shallow breathing; headache; drowsiness; extreme tiredness
Refer:
If symptoms continue after travelling stopped - labyrinthitis
Why is motion sickness medication taken before the journey ?
Take medication before journey begins to prevent symptoms as motion sickness delays digestion
What is the mode of action of hyoscine ?
Hyoscine
Mode of action: Blocks some of nerve signals sent from
vestibular system that cause nausea & vomiting
What’s medication is an example of hyoscine and what dose should be given ?
Hyoscine tablets - e.g. kwells kids
Dose:
Hyoscine tablets:1 x tablet, 20mins before journey,
repeat every 6hrs if required
Hyoscine patches: 1 patch every 3 days
What are some common and rare side effects of hyoscine ?
Common side-effects:
Drowsiness; blurred vision; dry mouth; constipation
Rare side-effects:
nausea; vomiting; mental confusion
What are the cautions of hyoscine ?
Caution: children; elderly; epilepsy; kidney or liver problems; heart problems , GORD
What are 3 examples of antihistamines used to treat motion sickness?
What does should be given of each?
Promethazine (Phenergen®)
25mg (& children above 10)
5mg (2-5 years old)
10mg (5-10 years old)
Once a day, at night
Cyclizine (Valoid®)
50mg, 25mg Upto three times a day
Cinnarizine (Stugeron®15)
2 x 15mg then 1x 15mg
1 x 15mg then ½ tablet
2 hrs before journey then every 8 hours
Side effects of antihistamines
Side-effects: drowsiness; headaches; pins & needles; dry mouth; blurred vision
What are some complimentary therapies advised for motion sickness?
Ginger
May help to prevent nausea & vomiting
Ginger supplements; biscuits; tea – reputable source
Side-effects: diarrhoea; heartburn
Acupressure bands
Apply pressure to a point on inside of wrist
between 2 tendons that run down inner arm
