Ever wondered why some people feel queasy on a winding road while others can read a book in a moving car with no trouble at all? The difference lies in how our brain and body handle sensory information related to motion, balance and visual input. Motion sickness occurs when there is a mismatch between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses, but not everyone’s brain reacts the same way.
A peer-reviewed study published in Experimental Brain Research (2023) found that people vary in their susceptibility to visually induced motion sickness due to differences in vestibular sensitivity, migraine history and even personality traits. The research showed that our biological wiring and how the brain integrates sensory signals play a key role in determining whether we feel sick during motion or not.
How motion sickness starts in the brain and inner ear
Motion sickness begins when the brain receives conflicting signals from the body’s sensory systems. The eyes may see stillness while the inner ear senses motion, or vice versa. This mismatch creates confusion in the brain’s processing centres, particularly the vestibular system, which governs balance and spatial orientation. The resulting conflict leads to classic symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, sweating and fatigue.
How visual motion affects motion sickness symptoms
Motion sickness tends to be worse when the eyes and the inner ear send different signals. Reading while travelling or looking down at a phone can make the brain believe that something is wrong. On the other hand, focusing on the horizon helps both systems align and reduces nausea. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, maintaining visual contact with stable external objects significantly decreases sensory conflict.
How previous experiences shape motion sickness risk
Your brain adapts to repeated experiences of movement. People who travel frequently, drive regularly or engage in VR activities develop better tolerance as their sensory systems learn to predict motion patterns. However, those with limited exposure to moving environments tend to feel sick more easily. Adaptation essentially recalibrates how the brain integrates movement cues, lowering the chance of sensory mismatch.
How to prevent and manage motion sickness effectively
Several methods can help prevent or lessen motion sickness symptoms:
People who do not experience motion sickness generally have strong coordination between their visual and vestibular systems. Their brain accurately predicts motion and quickly reconciles any small mismatches. Genetics, balanced hormone levels and well-functioning inner ear structures can also provide natural protection against motion-induced nausea.
Motion sickness is caused by conflicting signals between the eyes, inner ear and body sensors. The degree of sensitivity depends on individual differences in biology, genetics, experience and adaptation. Understanding these factors helps explain why some people feel ill at the slightest movement, while others can read, work or even sleep soundly through a bumpy journey.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.
Also read| Back pain linked to breast cancer: Early warning signs you should never ignore
A peer-reviewed study published in Experimental Brain Research (2023) found that people vary in their susceptibility to visually induced motion sickness due to differences in vestibular sensitivity, migraine history and even personality traits. The research showed that our biological wiring and how the brain integrates sensory signals play a key role in determining whether we feel sick during motion or not.
How motion sickness starts in the brain and inner ear
Motion sickness begins when the brain receives conflicting signals from the body’s sensory systems. The eyes may see stillness while the inner ear senses motion, or vice versa. This mismatch creates confusion in the brain’s processing centres, particularly the vestibular system, which governs balance and spatial orientation. The resulting conflict leads to classic symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, sweating and fatigue.
How visual motion affects motion sickness symptoms
Motion sickness tends to be worse when the eyes and the inner ear send different signals. Reading while travelling or looking down at a phone can make the brain believe that something is wrong. On the other hand, focusing on the horizon helps both systems align and reduces nausea. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, maintaining visual contact with stable external objects significantly decreases sensory conflict.
How previous experiences shape motion sickness risk
Your brain adapts to repeated experiences of movement. People who travel frequently, drive regularly or engage in VR activities develop better tolerance as their sensory systems learn to predict motion patterns. However, those with limited exposure to moving environments tend to feel sick more easily. Adaptation essentially recalibrates how the brain integrates movement cues, lowering the chance of sensory mismatch.
How to prevent and manage motion sickness effectively
Several methods can help prevent or lessen motion sickness symptoms:
- Sit facing forward and look at the horizon rather than focusing on nearby objects.
- Keep fresh air circulating and avoid reading while moving.
- Gradually increase exposure to motion environments to improve adaptation.
- Consider preventive medication or natural remedies under medical supervision.
- For VR or gaming environments, take frequent breaks and avoid overexposure.
People who do not experience motion sickness generally have strong coordination between their visual and vestibular systems. Their brain accurately predicts motion and quickly reconciles any small mismatches. Genetics, balanced hormone levels and well-functioning inner ear structures can also provide natural protection against motion-induced nausea.
Motion sickness is caused by conflicting signals between the eyes, inner ear and body sensors. The degree of sensitivity depends on individual differences in biology, genetics, experience and adaptation. Understanding these factors helps explain why some people feel ill at the slightest movement, while others can read, work or even sleep soundly through a bumpy journey.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.
Also read| Back pain linked to breast cancer: Early warning signs you should never ignore
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