Are you planning to go on a cruise but worried about getting seasick? Seasickness is a common concern among those who are new to cruising.
The good news is that there are ways to prevent and manage seasickness. In this article, we will discuss how long does seasickness last on a cruise and what you can do about it.
What is Seasickness?
Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, is a feeling of nausea and dizziness caused by the motion of a ship or boat. When the body’s balance-sensing system, which includes the inner ear, eyes, and sensory nerves, detects motion that is not consistent with what it expects, it sends mixed signals to the brain. This confusion can lead to various symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, and fatigue.
How Long Does Seasickness Last on a Cruise?
The duration of seasickness varies from person to person. Some people may experience mild symptoms that only last for a few hours while others may have more severe symptoms that last for several days. Generally speaking, most people will start to feel better after a day or two at sea as their body adjusts to the motion of the ship.
Prevention
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding seasickness. Here are some tips that can help:
- Choose the right cabin: If you are prone to motion sickness, try to book a cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck where there is less movement.
- Avoid alcohol and greasy foods: Both alcohol and greasy foods can exacerbate seasickness.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration which can make nausea worse.
- Take medication: Over-the-counter medications such as Dramamine or Bonine can help prevent and manage seasickness. Consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
Management
If you do start to feel seasick, here are some things you can do to manage the symptoms:
- Get some fresh air: Go outside and get some fresh air. Breathing in fresh air can help alleviate nausea.
- Focal point: Find a focal point on the horizon and focus on that point. This can help reorient your body’s balance-sensing system.
- Eat small, bland meals: Eating small, bland meals throughout the day can help settle your stomach.
- Acupressure bands: Acupressure bands, which apply pressure to specific points on the wrist, may also help alleviate nausea.
In Conclusion
Seasickness is an unpleasant but common experience for many first-time cruisers. The duration of seasickness varies from person to person, but most people will start to feel better after a day or two at sea as their body adjusts to the motion of the ship. By taking preventative measures and managing symptoms if they occur, you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about getting sick.