Are Ear Patches Safe? Concerns About Side Effects and Vision Changes

Can ear patches cause harm?

Hello, I saw your suggestion for people who are prone to seasickness to use ear patches.
I have a question regarding this.
A few years ago, my mother traveled abroad and used a patch.
Before her trip, she could clearly see the time on her watch, but after returning, she could no longer see it clearly.
Initially, we thought it would improve after a few days, but it didn't.
We then consulted a doctor who diagnosed her with presbyopia.
However, how could presbyopia worsen so rapidly? After considering it, I believe the patch is the most likely cause.
So, I would like to ask you, are these patches really safe? I am also traveling abroad soon, and I took seasickness medication while on a boat, but it didn't work.
I am thinking of trying the patch, but I am concerned about potential serious side effects.

amdnda, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/09/28

Dr. Lin Meili reply Pharmacology

Hello! Currently, the active ingredient in over-the-counter motion sickness transdermal patches is scopolamine, which is a potent anticholinergic medication.
Possible side effects include drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth (the most common), dry eyes, and ciliary muscle paralysis.
Patients with angle-closure glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract obstruction should avoid using anticholinergic motion sickness medications unless directed by a physician, as it may exacerbate their conditions.
Best wishes for your health from the Pharmacy Department of Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, by Pharmacist Lin Mei-Li.

Reply Date: 2003/09/28

More Info

Ear patches, often used to prevent motion sickness, have gained popularity for their convenience and effectiveness. However, concerns about their safety and potential side effects, including vision changes, are valid and warrant careful consideration.

Firstly, it's essential to understand how these patches work. Most ear patches contain scopolamine, an anticholinergic agent that helps to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. When applied behind the ear, the patch releases the medication slowly into the bloodstream, providing relief for several hours or even days.

Regarding safety, ear patches are generally considered safe for most individuals when used as directed. However, like any medication, they can have side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. The blurred vision can occur due to the anticholinergic effects of scopolamine, which can affect the eye's ability to focus. This is particularly concerning for individuals who may already have underlying vision issues, such as presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects), which can be exacerbated by the medication.

In your mother's case, if she experienced a sudden change in her vision after using the ear patch, it is crucial to consider other factors that could contribute to this change. While it is possible that the patch could have played a role, other age-related changes in vision could also be at play. Presbyopia typically develops gradually, but certain medications can accelerate the perception of vision changes. It is essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine the exact cause of her vision issues.

If you are considering using ear patches for your upcoming trip, it is advisable to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. If you have a history of eye problems or are currently experiencing any vision changes, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider before using the patches. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

Additionally, if you have previously experienced adverse effects from motion sickness medications, it may be worth exploring alternative options. Non-pharmacological methods for managing motion sickness include acupressure wristbands, ginger supplements, and behavioral strategies such as focusing on the horizon or avoiding heavy meals before travel.

In conclusion, while ear patches can be effective for preventing motion sickness, they are not without risks. If you choose to use them, do so with caution and awareness of potential side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your health or if you experience any adverse effects after using the patches. Safe travels!

Similar Q&A

Can Erythromycin Eye Ointment Cause Ear Toxicity?

Hello, I have been using erythromycin eye ointment for a year, and recently I have been experiencing tinnitus. Could the antibiotic in the eye ointment potentially cause ototoxicity?

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, topical antibiotic eye ointments rarely cause ototoxicity. If tinnitus persists without improvement, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination.

Understanding Eyelid Inflammation and Its Impact on Vision

Thank you, doctor, for your previous response! I have some additional questions I would like to ask: 1. My right eye has been uncomfortable for over a month. After seeing a doctor, I was diagnosed with blepharitis. I have been using the prescribed eye drops for about 8 to 9 day...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: 1. Elevated intraocular pressure is an uncommon side effect; if you are concerned, regular monitoring is advisable. 2. It's important to maintain eyelid hygiene. 3. Warm compresses can be helpful, but medication treatment is still recommended for better results. 4. It...

Understanding Ear Cleaning: Risks and Hearing Loss Concerns

Hello, doctor. I have always had the habit of cleaning my ears (not too deep), but recently I heard that frequently cleaning the ears can be harmful and may even cause hearing loss. Could you please explain what problems can arise from ear cleaning, and is it true that it can lea...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Long-term ear cleaning can easily lead to inflammation and infection of the external auditory canal, which may severely cause temporary hearing loss. It is advisable not to dig into your ears indiscriminately. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Dir...

Can Wearing Contaminated Headgear Cause Ear Infections?

I would like to ask if there are any medical cases where items worn on the head, when placed next to fruits and vegetables, become contaminated, leading to ear infections caused by parasites or bacteria. Today, I wore a safety helmet that I placed next to green onions, and I imme...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the likelihood of occurrence is not high. However, if you continue to experience discomfort in your ears, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Ho...