Sea Sick
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| The word "yacht" comes from the Dutch verb "jacht." The translation means "to throw up violently." |
Seasickness is caused when the minute inner ear organs that enable a human to balance are disturbed by the swaying and pitching motion of the boat. This movement sets off alarm signals to the brain causing nausea, headache, dizziness, and sometimes vomiting. This condition can be intensified by the lack of fresh air and inactivity. 
Seasickness affects many people to varying degrees - even sailors with
years of experience, and it can be a person's worst nightmare at sea.
Looking on the bright side, the body adapts after time. Fortunately, you can can avoid seasickness by taking over the counter anti-motion drugs such as Dramamine, Bonamine, and Gravol. None of the pills work immediately and all must be taken before symptoms occur. The pills can cause drowsiness and should be taken with care. You can often avoid seasickness by staying busy and keeping your mind occupied by asking the Captain for permission to swab the deck, or any other activity that will keep you above decks. Let your eyes see what your ears are feeling by looking at the distant horizon rather than the water close at hand. Some foods should be avoided. Anything
greasy or rich, for example, that makes your stomach feel uneasy on land
will probably make it feel much worse on a rolling and pitching boat.
Doctors strongly recommend that alcohol not be consumed by anyone who is
prone to seasickness, as it affects the functioning of the inner ear. If you are seasick and can't bear it anymore, lie down on your back with your eyes closed. This will greatly reduce the effect, as will deep breaths and drinking plenty of water. |
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