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How to get rid of seasickness after a boat trip?

Seasickness on a boat is an uncomfortable experience that many have experienced. Even after setting foot on dry land, the symptoms can persist, known as “post-boat sickness”. In this blog post, we will explore how to alleviate these annoying symptoms and regain your wellbeing as soon as possible. If you love sailing and are considering buying a boat, visit our section on how to buy a Crownline boat.

What is post-boat sickness?

Post-boat sickness, also known as “mal de débarquement”, is a sensation of motion that persists after disembarking from a ship. It is as if your body still feels like it is bobbing on the waves, even though you are on dry land. This phenomenon occurs due to a disorientation in the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. Although not everyone experiences it, it is quite common and can last from a few hours to several days.

Common symptoms of post-boat sickness

Symptoms of post-sea sickness can vary in intensity and duration. The most common include:

  • Sensation of swaying or movement
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Nausea
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Headache

It is important to recognise these symptoms so that appropriate action can be taken to alleviate discomfort.

Why does seasickness occur after sailing?

Seasickness after sailing occurs because of the brain’s adaptation to the constant motion of the boat. While you are on the boat, your vestibular system and your eyes send conflicting signals to the brain: the vestibular system detects movement, but your eyes may not perceive it in the same way if you are inside the boat. This mismatch causes seasickness during the voyage, and in some cases it takes time for the brain to readjust to stability once you are on dry land.

Factors influencing the duration of seasickness

The duration of post-sea sickness can vary depending on several factors:

  • Travel time: The longer you have been on the boat, the longer it may take for your body to readjust.
  • Sea conditions: A rough sea tends to cause more intense symptoms.
  • Individual sensitivity: Some people are more susceptible to motion sickness than others.
  • General health: Fatigue, dehydration or alcohol consumption may aggravate symptoms.

Strategies to alleviate post-boat sickness

Overcoming seasickness after a boat trip may require several approaches. Here are some strategies that can help you feel better faster.

Rest and relaxation

Rest is essential for your body to recover from seasickness. Allowing your nervous system to relax and readjust to the stability of dry land is one of the best ways to combat the symptoms. Take time to rest in a quiet place, preferably in a dimly lit room. A good night’s sleep can also speed up your recovery.

Adequate hydration

Dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of motion sickness. Make sure you drink enough water before, during and after your trip. Water helps maintain your body’s fluid balance and flushes out toxins. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you and worsen symptoms.

Perform balance exercises

Balance exercises can help recalibrate your vestibular system. Activities such as walking on soft surfaces, yoga or stretching exercises can be helpful. These exercises help your brain adapt more quickly to ground stability.

Use of medication if necessary

If symptoms are severe, you may consider the use of motion sickness medication. Antihistamines such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate may be effective in relieving motion sickness and nausea. Consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Natural remedies to combat motion sickness

If you prefer to avoid medication, there are several natural remedies that can help you overcome post-sea sickness.

Ginger: an ally against nausea

Ginger is known for its anti-emetic properties, making it an excellent natural remedy for motion sickness. You can consume it in the form of tea, capsules or even chewing pieces of fresh ginger. Ginger helps to calm the stomach and reduce the feeling of nausea.

Essential oils to alleviate symptoms

Essential oils, such as peppermint or lavender, can be helpful in reducing motion sickness. You can inhale these oils directly or apply a few drops to your wrists or behind your ears. The fresh scent of peppermint, in particular, can help reduce the feeling of dizziness.

Relaxing infusions

Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, can be effective in calming the nervous system and reducing motion sickness. These herbal teas not only help you relax, but can also relieve nausea and improve your general well-being.

Preventing motion sickness on future trips

Although post-boat sickness can be difficult to avoid completely, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing it on future trips.

Choose a strategic location on the ship

If you tend to get seasick, it is advisable to choose a place on the ship where movement is less noticeable. Central areas and lower decks tend to be more stable. Also, keeping your eyes on the horizon and avoiding enclosed areas can help reduce symptoms during the journey.

Wear anti-sickness patches or bracelets

Scopolamine patches and acupressure wristbands can be useful tools for preventing motion sickness. These devices work by balancing the pressure in your vestibular system, helping to prevent the onset of symptoms. It is advisable to apply them before travel begins for best results.

Avoid reading or looking at screens while travelling

Reading or looking at screens can aggravate seasickness, as your eyes are focused on a fixed point while your body senses movement. Instead, try to keep your eyes on the horizon or a fixed point outside the boat. This helps to synchronise the signals your brain receives, reducing the chances of seasickness.

When to seek medical help

In most cases, post-boat sickness resolves on its own within a few hours or days. However, if symptoms persist for more than a week, or if they are severe enough to interfere with your daily activities, it is important to seek medical help. It could be a sign of an underlying disorder that requires specific treatment.

Symptoms requiring medical attention

Consult a doctor if you experience:

  • Severe dizziness or vertigo that does not improve
  • Hearing loss or tinnitus
  • Disorientation or confusion
  • Severe headache that won’t go away

These symptoms could indicate a more serious problem, such as a vestibular or neurological disorder, which needs to be evaluated by a professional.

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