Nutil

Travel

Science-based advice for travelers

Jet Lag

Jet lag affects most travelers crossing five or more time zones[1].

Melatonin is effective for reducing jet lag symptoms[2]. Take it at bedtime in the new time zone, starting the day of arrival.

{?|expose yourself to bright light in the morning at your destination to help shift your circadian rhythm - avoid bright light in the evening when traveling east, and morning light when traveling west}

Motion Sickness

Scopolamine patches are effective at preventing motion sickness[3].

Antihistamines like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) are equally effective as scopolamine[4]. Over-the-counter options include meclizine and diphenhydramine.

{?|looking at the horizon, staying in areas with less motion (middle of ship, over wing of plane), fresh air, and avoiding reading can all help reduce symptoms}

Altitude Sickness

Warning: Altitude sickness can be dangerous

Acute mountain sickness can develop at altitudes above 2500 meters (8200 feet)[5].

Ascending slowly allows your body to acclimatize[6].

{?|acetazolamide taken before and during ascent can prevent or reduce altitude sickness symptoms - discuss with a doctor before high-altitude travel}

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References

  1. Herxheimer A (2014). Jet lag. BMJ Clinical Evidence. [DOI]
  2. Herxheimer A (2014). Jet lag. BMJ Clinical Evidence. [DOI]
  3. Spinks A, Wasiak J (2011). Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. [DOI]
  4. Spinks A, Wasiak J (2011). Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. [DOI]
  5. Luks AM, Swenson ER, Bartsch P (2017). Acute high-altitude sickness. European Respiratory Review. [DOI]
  6. Luks AM, Swenson ER, Bartsch P (2017). Acute high-altitude sickness. European Respiratory Review. [DOI]