## How to Treat Motion Sickness While Scuba Diving
Motion sickness is a common problem for scuba divers, especially beginners. It can be caused by the movement of the boat or the water, and can lead to nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. There are a number of things you can do to treat motion sickness while scuba diving, including:
Taking medication. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help to prevent or treat motion sickness. Some of the most common include Dramamine, Bonine, and Scopolamine.
Eating a light meal before diving. Eating a light meal before diving can help to settle your stomach and reduce the likelihood of motion sickness. Avoid eating heavy or fatty foods, which can make you feel more nauseous.
Drinking plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it can also help to prevent motion sickness. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks, before and during your dive.
Getting plenty of rest. Getting enough sleep before your dive can help to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness. Avoid alcohol and caffeine before diving, as these can both make you more susceptible to motion sickness.
Focusing on a fixed object. If you start to feel nauseous, focus on a fixed object, such as the horizon or a specific point on the boat. This can help to reduce the feeling of movement and make you feel less dizzy.
Taking deep breaths. Taking deep breaths can help to relax you and reduce the feeling of nausea. Try taking slow, deep breaths through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.
Using a motion sickness patch. Motion sickness patches are available over-the-counter and can be applied to the skin behind the ear. These patches release a small dose of scopolamine, which can help to prevent motion sickness.
If you experience motion sickness while scuba diving, it is important to stop diving and rest until the symptoms subside. You should also drink plenty of fluids and eat a light snack. If your symptoms do not improve, you should seek medical attention.
## Tips for Preventing Motion Sickness
In addition to the tips above, there are a number of things you can do to prevent motion sickness before you even get on the boat. These include:
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine can both make you more susceptible to motion sickness. Avoid these substances before and during your dive.
Getting a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep before your dive can help to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness.
Eating a light meal before diving. Eating a light meal before diving can help to settle your stomach and reduce the likelihood of motion sickness. Avoid eating heavy or fatty foods, which can make you feel more nauseous.
Taking a motion sickness medication. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to take a motion sickness medication before you dive. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help to prevent motion sickness.
Using a motion sickness patch. Motion sickness patches are available over-the-counter and can be applied to the skin behind the ear. These patches release a small dose of scopolamine, which can help to prevent motion sickness.
## Conclusion
Motion sickness is a common problem for scuba divers, but it can be treated and prevented. By following the tips above, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness and enjoy your dive.
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