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Mal de debarquement
Other Names for this Disease
- Disembarkment syndrome
- Mal de debarquement syndrome
- MdDS
- Sickness of disembarkment
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Overview
Mal de debarquement syndrome is a balance disorder that most commonly develops following an ocean cruise or other type of water travel and less commonly following air travel, train travel, other motion experiences. The symptoms typically reported include: persistent sensation of motion such as rocking, swaying, and/or bobbing, difficulty maintaining balance, ataxia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The symptoms may be last anywhere from a month to years. Symptoms may or may not go away with time; however, they may reoccur following another motion experience or during periods of stress or illness. Although there is no known cure for mal de debarquement syndrome, there is evidence that some patients have responded positively to benzodiazepines and amitriptyline and vestibular therapy and exercise.[1]
References
- MdDS Foundation. Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS). http://mddsfoundation.org/mdds_brochure.pdf. Accessed December 30, 2008.
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