Predicting visually induced motion sickness with lifestyle factors: An online survey study

Visually induced motion sickness (VIMS), a type of motion sickness (MS), is a common side-effect of visual devices and Virtual Reality (VR) usage. Due to its complexity, individual lifestyle factors may be possible predictors of experiencing VIMS and MS. This study aimed to (1) explore the association between lifestyle factors of video game use, fitness, diet, and substance use and self-reported VIMS and MS, as well as, to (2) determine the overall prevalence of VIMS. Responses to an online survey from 325 adults, between the ages of 18-49, were collected and analysed. Significant sex differences were observed for both VIMS and MS susceptibility. With regards to VIMS susceptibility, lifestyle factors including video game usage, physical activity as well as the consumption of fruits and vegetables, legumes, and carbohydrates were identified as relevant predictors. Lifestyle factors were noted to be not relevant for MS susceptibility.