How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Motion Sickness in Children

Audience: pediatric

Motion sickness is common in children and can cause nausea, dizziness, and vomiting during travel or movement. A telemedicine visit can help you understand your child's symptoms and get advice on how to manage them safely at home. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and recent activities. Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate motion sickness but may not be appropriate if your child has severe symptoms or other health concerns. Preparing well for the visit helps make the most of your time with the provider and ensures your child receives the best care possible.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Your child has repeated vomiting and cannot keep fluids down — seek urgent in-person care to prevent dehydration.
• Your child shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or decreased urination — get prompt medical attention.
• Your child experiences severe headache, confusion, weakness, or difficulty walking — these may indicate a serious condition requiring emergency evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate motion sickness symptoms
• Advice on prevention and home management
• Guidance on over-the-counter remedies appropriate for children
• Monitoring symptom progression and deciding if in-person care is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe vomiting with dehydration
• Neurological symptoms such as confusion or weakness
• Signs of serious illness needing physical examination or urgent tests

What is Motion Sickness?

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

When to Use Telemedicine for Motion Sickness

Telemedicine can be a good choice if your child has mild symptoms that started recently and you want advice on managing them. A healthcare provider can guide you on home care, recommend over-the-counter remedies, and suggest ways to prevent motion sickness in the future. However, telemedicine is not suitable if your child has severe vomiting, dehydration, or other serious symptoms.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, including when they started, how often they occur, and what triggers them. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking and note any other health problems. Find a quiet, well-lit place with a good internet connection for the video call. Be ready to describe your child's recent travel or activities.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may observe your child through the video to check for signs of illness. Based on this information, they will offer advice on treatment, prevention, and when to seek in-person care. They may also recommend follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen.

Managing Motion Sickness at Home

Simple steps can help reduce motion sickness, such as sitting in a front seat, focusing on the horizon, ensuring fresh air, and avoiding heavy meals before travel. Over-the-counter medicines may be suggested for older children but should be used carefully under guidance. Hydration and rest are important if vomiting occurs.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start time and frequency of your child's symptoms.
• List any medicines, supplements, or treatments your child is using.
• Prepare to describe recent travel, activities, or triggers.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a stable internet connection for the visit.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone enabled.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on managing symptoms at home.
• Use recommended medicines only as directed.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care immediately if any red-flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine providers prescribe medicine for motion sickness?

Yes, telemedicine providers can often recommend or prescribe medicines suitable for your child's age and symptoms. However, they will consider safety and may suggest over-the-counter options first.

What can I do to prevent motion sickness in my child?

Preventive steps include sitting in the front seat or where motion is least felt, looking at the horizon, avoiding heavy meals before travel, ensuring fresh air, and taking regular breaks during long trips.

When should I take my child to see a doctor in person?

If your child has severe vomiting, cannot keep fluids down, shows signs of dehydration, or has neurological symptoms like confusion or weakness, you should seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is motion sickness common in children?

Yes, children are often more sensitive to motion sickness than adults. It typically improves with age but can be managed effectively with proper care.

Can motion sickness cause long-term problems?

Motion sickness usually does not cause long-term health issues. It tends to resolve once the movement stops and with preventive measures during travel.

Sources

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

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