Sandra Jenks, age 12, of San Diego, Calif., for her question:

HOW DO PEOPLE GET SEASICK?

Seasickness is a type of motion sickness. You know the symptoms: you will get a strange feeling in your stomach, and then it will be followed by nausea. You will usually vomit despite your efforts to control it. The world will spin around as you feel vertigo.

Your seasickness is a result of over stimulation of the vestibular part of the inner ear, which is responsible for helping the body keep its balance. Other things may help: a rolling motion, fatigue of the eyes to adjust to a rapidly moving landscape, fear and a sensitive stomach.

To prevent seasickness, eat moderately and avoid greasy foods. Munch dry toast. Breathe deeply and relax. Keep your mind off the motion. And if all fails, try Dramamine.