Can Telemedicine Treat Motion Sickness in Children?

Audience: pediatric

Motion sickness is a common condition in children that can cause nausea, dizziness, and vomiting during travel or movement. Telemedicine can be a helpful way for parents and caregivers to get advice and guidance on managing these symptoms safely at home. Through a virtual visit, healthcare providers can assess symptoms, suggest lifestyle changes, and recommend over-the-counter remedies suitable for children. However, telemedicine cannot replace in-person care if symptoms are severe or if there are signs of other serious conditions. Knowing when to seek urgent medical attention is important for your child's safety. This guide explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for pediatric motion sickness, how to prepare for a tele-visit, and what to expect afterward.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has persistent vomiting that prevents keeping fluids down — seek emergency care to prevent dehydration.
• Child appears very drowsy, confused, or has difficulty waking — get immediate medical attention.
• Child has severe headache, neck stiffness, or fever along with motion sickness symptoms — urgent evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate motion sickness symptoms in children.
• Providing advice on prevention and symptom management.
• Recommending safe over-the-counter medications or non-drug remedies appropriate for age.
• Answering questions about when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic tests.
• Managing severe dehydration from vomiting.
• Evaluating symptoms that suggest other serious conditions (e.g., neurological signs, infection).
• Providing emergency treatment for severe symptoms.

What is Motion Sickness in Children?

Motion sickness happens when the brain receives mixed signals about movement from the eyes, inner ears, and muscles. This can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and cold sweats, especially during car rides, boat trips, or amusement park rides. Children may be more sensitive to these effects than adults.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a telemedicine visit, a healthcare provider can ask about your child's symptoms, travel history, and any other health issues. They can offer advice on preventing motion sickness, such as sitting in certain positions, focusing on the horizon, and avoiding heavy meals before travel. Providers may also suggest safe over-the-counter medications or natural remedies appropriate for your child's age.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Motion Sickness

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests that might be needed if symptoms are unusual or severe. It also cannot provide emergency care if your child has severe vomiting, dehydration, or other serious signs. In such cases, an in-person evaluation is necessary.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, have information ready about your child's symptoms, recent travel, medications, and any allergies. Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the video call and have water or snacks available in case your child feels unwell during the visit.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on managing symptoms and using medications. Monitor your child closely for any worsening or new symptoms. If symptoms do not improve or if red flags appear, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the child’s symptoms, including when they started and what triggers them.
• List any medications or supplements the child is currently taking.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the video call.
• Have water and light snacks ready in case the child feels nauseous during the visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s recommendations for symptom management and medication use.
• Encourage the child to rest and avoid triggers that worsen symptoms.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or red flags develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to share with healthcare providers if needed.

FAQs

Can motion sickness be prevented in children?

Yes, motion sickness can often be prevented by simple measures such as sitting in the front seat of a car, looking at the horizon, avoiding heavy meals before travel, and keeping the child’s head still. Your healthcare provider can suggest additional strategies during a telemedicine visit.

Are there safe medicines for motion sickness in children?

Some over-the-counter medicines may be safe for children, but it depends on the child's age and health. Always consult a healthcare provider before giving any medication. Telemedicine providers can guide you on appropriate options.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for motion sickness?

If your child cannot keep fluids down, shows signs of dehydration, is very sleepy or confused, or has severe headache or fever, seek emergency care immediately. These symptoms may indicate a more serious problem.

Can telemedicine diagnose other causes of nausea besides motion sickness?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and suggest when further in-person evaluation is needed. However, a physical exam and tests may be required to diagnose other causes of nausea, which telemedicine cannot provide.

Sources

1. Motion Sickness — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Motion Sickness in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Motion Sickness — Mayo Clinic.
4. Nausea and Vomiting in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.