Signs and Symptoms
The first sign of motion sickness usually is upset stomach (queasiness) or nausea. Young children who are unable to express this feeling may become fussy, pale, and restless. Children who are motion sick often become tired and fall asleep.
Other signs and symptoms of motion sickness in a child during travel include the following:
- Becoming overheated
- Dizziness (vertigo)
- Excessive yawning
- Lack of interest in eating and drinking
- Slight headache
- Sweating
- Vomiting
Contact a physician as soon as possible if a child who has not been ill, has not recently traveled, and has not been involved in a moving activity develops these symptoms of motion sickness.
Complications
Rarely, severe cases of motion sickness can result in dehydration (lack of fluid in the body) caused by vomiting, sweating, and inadequate fluid intake. Infants and young children are more susceptible to dehydration than older children and adolescents.
Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, inability to produce tears, low urine output, sunken soft spot (fontanel; in infants), and lethargy. If you suspect your child may be dehydrated, contact his or her physician as soon as possible. Severe dehydration is a life-threatening emergency.
If the child develops additional symptoms, such as severe headache, blurred vision, hearing loss, inability to speak clearly or walk normally, or loses consciousness, call a physician or dial 911 immediately. These symptoms may indicate a neurological condition or other illness that requires medical treatment.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 28 Aug 2008
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 13 Aug 2008
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