Broom Sickness

The technical name for the more commonly used Broom Sickness is Acute Aerial Humors Disadulation. It occurs when a magical person is stricken with uncontrollable balance and vertigo whilst isolated in a high place, such as astride a broomstick. The subject is completely unable to orient themselves properly in space and this often leads to severe gastric discomfort and mid-air collisions with local bird-life.

Duration

Bouts of Broom Sickness may last as short as fifteen minutes to as long as weeks. There are even some who claim to suffer from chronic (life-long) Broom Sickness.

Causes

Broom Sickness can be caused by many things, both known and unknown. Unfortunately, most of what is known about Broom Sickness is anecdotal. However, St. Mungo's released and informational pamphlet in 2002.

To avoid Broom Sickness, one should wait 30 minutes after a meal before flying, and take special care to avoid taking potions that contain willow. Youths under the age of 13 and over the age of 83 should avoid riding during rain. Riding with rocks in one's pockets does NOT alleviate symptoms of Broom Sickness.

—St. Mungo's

One possible side effect of Weasley's Fly Straight Serum is, strangely, Broom Sickness.

Cures

There is no known cure for Broom Sickness but there are many traditional remedies.

At Absit Omen

In September 2009, the Hufflepuff Quidditch team supposedly all came down with Broom Sickness after taking Weasley's Fly Straight Serum and were grounded for the next match. They had to be replaced by alternates.