Motion Sickness

You should consult a GP for motion sickness if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Severe nausea: Frequent nausea and vomiting that disrupt daily activities or travel plans.
• Dizziness issues: If you experience ongoing vertigo or unsteadiness, even when not in motion.
• Unresponsive to treatments: If over-the-counter remedies and self-care strategies do not provide relief.
• Impact on daily life: If motion sickness limits your ability to work, travel, or engage in routine activities.
• Sudden or worsening symptoms: If motion sickness appears unexpectedly or becomes more intense over time.

Motion sickness symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Increased saliva production
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• A general feeling of discomfort

Symptoms usually resolve once the motion stops, but in some cases, they can persist for hours after travel.

Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives mixed signals from different sensory systems. Several factors can contribute to this, including:

• Conflicting sensory signals: The primary cause of motion sickness is a disconnect between what the eyes see and what the inner ear detects.
• Sensitivity of the vestibular system: The inner ear’s vestibular system controls balance and spatial orientation. Some individuals have a more sensitive vestibular system, making them more prone to motion sickness.
• Genetics and family history: Research suggests that genetics may play a role, as people with a family history of motion sickness are more likely to experience it themselves.
• Migraines and inner ear disorders: People who suffer from migraines or conditions affecting the inner ear (such as Ménière’s disease) are more susceptible to motion sickness.
• Anxiety and stress: Stress and anxiety can make symptoms worse, as they heighten sensitivity to bodily sensations.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnant women, individuals on hormonal birth control, and those undergoing hormonal fluctuations (such as during menstruation) may be more prone to motion sickness.

If you frequently experience motion sickness, here are some ways to manage and prevent it:

• Choose the right seat: Sit in the front seat of a car, over the wing of an airplane, or in the middle of a boat where movement is less intense.
• Focus on a stable object: Look at the horizon or a distant fixed point instead of reading or looking at screens.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen nausea.
• Eat light meals: Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods before travel, as they can trigger nausea.
• Use acupressure bands: Wristbands that apply pressure to the P6 acupressure point may help prevent nausea.
• Try ginger or peppermint: Both are natural remedies known to reduce nausea and motion sickness symptoms.
• Get fresh air: Open a window or step outside to reduce discomfort when possible.
• Take breaks: If traveling by car, stop for fresh air and movement to help reset your balance.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing and meditation can help reduce anxiety-related motion sickness.

You can prevent motion sickness by using the following strategies

• Sit in the front seat of a car or over the wing of an airplane.
• Keep your gaze on a stable horizon.
• Avoid reading or using screens.
• Stay hydrated and eat light meals before travel.
• Try ginger or motion sickness bands.

Connect with an AHPRA-accredited online doctor or health practitioner via a telehealth appointment within minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7. To access an instant consult:

• Start here and click on see a doctor now
• Fill in your details and make payment
• Speak to an AHPRA-accredited medical practitioner within 15 minutes
• If approved, get online prescriptions, medical certificates and referrals to your phone.

Yes, you can obtain a medical certificate online for work through Hola Health. If you’re feeling unwell and unable to visit a doctor in person, an AHPRA-licensed GP or health practitioner can assess your condition via a video or phone consultation and issue a valid sick certificate online. This certificate can be used as official documentation for sick leave or work-related absences.

For conditions like motion sickness, a doctor may provide a medical certificate if your symptoms are severe enough to impact your ability to perform your job. Common reasons for requesting a medical certificate for motion sickness include:

• Persistent nausea, dizziness, or vomiting that affects work performance.
• Side effects of prescribed motion sickness medication (e.g., drowsiness).
• A need for time off due to severe symptoms after travel.

You can get an online prescription through a telehealth consultation with Hola Health.

An eScript is a secure digital prescription that allows you to get your medication from any pharmacy without needing a paper prescription. It is especially useful when you cannot visit a GP in person.

Steps to get an eScript via Hola Health

• Request an instant script.
• Fill in your details, make the payment and connect with a web doctor within minutes.
• If appropriate, the doctor will send an SMS with your prescription.
• Take the online script to a local or online pharmacy delivery service to get your medication.

Connect with licensed online doctors 24/7 and quickly obtain medical certificates, online prescriptions, and specialist referrals—all without leaving home. Telehealth helps in:

• Online GP consultations: Speak with an AHPRA-registered doctor via telehealth, often within 15 minutes.
• Round-the-clock access: Get medical support from a 24-hour doctor, no matter where you are in Australia.
• Online scripts: Secure fast online prescriptions, approved by a licensed doctor.
• Medical certificates: Request a doctor’s certificate online for work, school, or carer duties, all without a clinic visit.
• Online doctor referrals Australia: Receive GP referrals for specialists, pathology, and radiology tests without waiting for an in-person appointment.
• Mental health support: Access bulk-billed mental health care plans from experienced professionals through telehealth.

Instantly connect to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7 for:

• Telehealth appointment with GP
• Online scripts 24/7
• Medical certificate Australia
• Get online doctor referrals