DIZZINESS (SEA SICKNESS)
Dizziness or "sea sickness" occurs as a consequence of the ship's movements, and it is something common even in experienced people.
Seasickness effects vary from mild nausea, dry mouth, headache, weakness and cold sweat to repeated vomiting, vertigo and varying degrees of malaise. In severe cases, prolonged vomiting may lead to liquid loss causing severe dehydration.
It is possible to prevent sea sickness taking a tablet of dimenhidrinate (DRAWER 4, first aid kits A, B, and C) one hour before boarding, followed by one tablet every six hours for a maximum of 48 hours. The most common side effects are sleepiness, dry mouth and blurred vision.
Once the problem has started, if it is mild it is likely that the symptoms will disappear during sleep and no specific treatment is required; the patient must remain still and warm, in a reclined position, with his head on the pillow and looking at a fixed point or with his eyes closed, in a fresh and ventilated cabin, if possible in the middle of the ship and in the floating line plane. Small amounts of dry foods, such as biscuits, dry bread or toast, may settle the stomach. Do not remain fasting.
If the problem aggravates with frequent vomiting, this should be stopped before treatment as indicated on Chapter 8.45, VOMITING. The treatment will be completed by replacing lost liquids with an oral rehydration salt solution (DRAWER 13, first aid kits A and B), advising the patient to sleep for four to six hours.
In case of continuous vomiting, or if seasickness continues in spite of the medication, ask for MEDICAL ADVICE VIA RADIO .