Hypoxic acclimatization training improves the resistance to motion sickness.

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Medicine
• Human Physiology
• Vestibular System Research

Background:

• Vestibular provocation is a primary cause of flight illusions and is linked to motion sickness (MS) susceptibility.
• Current training methods show limited efficacy in enhancing resistance to MS.
• Developing effective training interventions is crucial for aviation safety and performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of hypoxia acclimatization training (HAT) on improving resistance to motion sickness.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of HAT, 3D roller training (3DRT), and a combined training approach in mitigating MS symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Healthy military college students were recruited for the study.
• A motion sickness (MS) model was induced using a rotary chair.
• Experimental groups included a control, HAT, 3DRT, and a combined training group.

Main Results:

• All training groups (HAT, 3DRT, combined) showed reduced motion sickness (MS) severity (Graybiel scores) compared to the control.
• Physiological responses to the rotary chair test, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, were normalized in the training groups.
• Autonomic nervous system activity (LFn, HFn, LF/HF) and pupillary responses (PCV, PMD) indicated improved vestibular tolerance in all training groups, with the combined group showing the most significant attenuation.

Conclusions:

• Hypoxia acclimatization training (HAT) and 3D roller training (3DRT) are effective in enhancing resistance to motion sickness (MS).
• Combined HAT and 3DRT provide superior protection against MS, suggesting a potent synergistic effect.
• This research offers a viable training strategy to improve motion sickness resistance in military pilots.