Mal de mer is a French term literally translated as "seasickness" in English. It is a commonly used nautical term referring to the discomfort or uneasiness experienced by individuals when travelling on a boat, ship, or other types of watercraft.
Mal de mer is a form of motion sickness that occurs due to the perception of conflicting movements by the human sensory system. When a person is on board a vessel, the inner ears sense the rocking and movement of the boat, while the eyes may perceive a relatively stationary environment. This mismatch in sensory information can lead to mal de mer symptoms.
Symptoms of mal de mer typically include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, vertigo, cold sweats, and fatigue. The severity of these symptoms may vary among individuals, with some people experiencing mild discomfort while others may have more severe reactions.
Several preventative measures can be taken to alleviate the symptoms of mal de mer. These include minimizing exposure to rocking motions by sitting in the middle of the boat, focusing on a stationary point on the horizon, maintaining proper hydration, and avoiding heavy, fatty, or spicy foods before and during the boat journey. Over-the-counter medications, such as antiemetic drugs, may also be used to alleviate mal de mer symptoms.
In summary, mal de mer is a condition characterized by the discomfort and uneasiness experienced by individuals during boat travel due to the perception of conflicting movements.
