What is the relationship between vestibular dysfunction and motion sickness?

May 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

In general, vestibular dysfunction is associated with motion sickness. If the vestibular system is functioning properly, symptoms of motion sickness typically do not occur. However, if there is vestibular dysfunction, symptoms of motion sickness may appear. It is recommended to avoid reading or using electronic screens while riding in a vehicle, and to keep the eyes focused forward as much as possible in order to reduce conflicts between visual and vestibular information. Additionally, maintaining good ventilation in the vehicle can help alleviate discomfort.

In general, vestibular dysfunction is associated with motion sickness. If the vestibular system functions well, symptoms of motion sickness typically do not occur. However, if vestibular function is impaired, symptoms of motion sickness may appear. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Vestibular dysfunction refers to a pathological condition caused by abnormalities in the vestibular system, which affects the body's sense of balance. Motion sickness refers to a series of physiological reactions caused by the misperception of movement when the body receives abnormal motion stimuli. If an individual's vestibular system functions well, it can effectively process and coordinate movement information received from vision and bodily sensations, making motion sickness unlikely even while traveling in a bumpy vehicle.

However, when an individual suffers from vestibular dysfunction, such as vestibular neuritis or Ménière's disease, the vestibular system's ability to perceive motion is impaired, making the person more prone to discomfort during travel, including symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

It is recommended to avoid reading or using electronic screens while riding in a vehicle, try to keep the eyes focused forward, and minimize the conflict between visual and vestibular information. Additionally, maintaining good ventilation inside the vehicle can help alleviate discomfort.

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