Before you and your boating guests head out this season, here are some travel health tips from DAN Boater, the world's premier travel safety association.
Nearly everyone, including the most seasoned mariners, has experienced seasickness. Symptoms range from dizziness and mild headaches to cold sweats, nausea and vomiting.
The good news is that the symptoms typically lasts only a day or two and most people begin feeling normal again without the need for professional medical care.
However, if you think that seasickness may affect you while boating here are a few tips to help minimize your symptoms.
Dr. Jim Chimiak, Medical Director at DAN Boater, explains:
"Well, with seasickness anyone can suffer from this malady of the sea. The main thing to remember is it's a disconnect between your visual cues and your vestibular apparatus. To help with addressing that in the acute phase is to:
If these measures don't help, taking some prophylactic medication can be very helpful. There are a variety of medicines out there and I suggest you test them out prior to your voyage because one of the things you have to consider is the side effects associated with those medications.
And then lastly, there are some physical means to go ahead and take care of seasickness. There are acupressure points. There are diets that seem to help with certain individuals. But again there are a variety of suggestions by folks that have found success when they voyage out on to the sea."
Of course, what works for others may not work for you so it's a good idea to be prepared before embarking on a long trip.
And remember. As a DAN Boater member, our travel medical experts can be reached through our medical information line if you're experiencing signs of seasickness and need assistance.
So be prepared, be aware, and always travel with DAN Boater.
About James Chimiak, MD
Dr. Chimiak is the Medical Director at DAN where he oversees the organization's emergency management and medical operations. A former U.S. Navy Special Operations, Surface Warfare and Deep Sea Diver, he is also a triple board-certified physician in hyperbaric medicine, anesthesiology, and chronic pain.
MORE FROM
SAFE PASSAGE
TRAVEL HEALTH | Mar 25, 2018
17 Easy Ways to Beat Seasickness Right Now
TRAVEL HEALTH | Feb 2, 2018
DAN Boater Releases New Travel Disorders Guide
THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR DENTAL ADVICE.
It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical or dental advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the DAN Boater website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor, dial 911, or contact emergency services nearest you.
