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Symptoms
Most
commonly, Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS) presents itself
after an ocean cruise or other type of water travel. MdDS
has also been reported to follow air, train, automobile, and space
travel and less commonly, after sleeping on a waterbed, frequent use of
high speed elevators, drug toxicity and spontaneously. Symptoms
usually begin shortly after the cessation of the motion stimulus and
are often increased when in an enclosed space or when attempting to be
motionless (sitting, lying down, or standing in a stationery position).
Symptoms are reduced when in motion such as in a moving car, airplane,
or train.
Symptoms most
frequently reported are:
Persistent sensation of
motion such as:
Rocking
Bobbing
Swaying
Tumbling
Imbalance
Ataxia - a staggering gait
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Disequilibrium
Symptoms less frequently reported include:
Sensitivity to light (i.e.,
fluorescent, strobe, flashing)
Dizziness
Headaches
Migraine
headaches
Intolerance of busy
patterns
Loss of self-confidence
Nausea
Confusion
Memory loss
Ear pain and/or fullness
Anxiety
Depression
Symptoms not typically associated with MdDS include:
Rotational or spinning
vertigo
Double
vision
Bouncing
vision
Nystagmus
Sound sensitivity
Tinnitus
Hearing loss
Symptoms
can vary in intensity from day to day and even throughout the
day. Many times, the reason for these changes cannot be clearly
identified. Many report increased symptoms toward the end of the
day. This is most likely caused by an increase in stress and
fatigue. Although common triggers have not been clinically
identified, some report increased symptoms with stress, fatigue,
illness, dark rooms, bright lights, busy patterns, shopping in malls
and grocery stores, and walking in crowds. For many, the symptoms
decrease over time, but not always.
Additionally,
some sufferers have experienced recurrence of symptoms triggered by
events such as subsequent cruises, air travel, upper respiratory
infections and other motion experiences such as elevator rides, etc.
PLEASE
NOTE: Many of these symptoms can be
experienced by those with other inner ear disorders. This is
why MdDS is usually diagnosed after eliminating other disorders and by
patient history that may include a recent cruise, boat, car or plane
ride or other motion experience.
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Brochure |
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This
site is designed for those suffering from MdDS (Mal de Debarquement
Syndrome) and the health care professionals who treat them.
If
you have been diagnosed or suspect that you have MdDS or Disembarkment
Syndrome, sign up for a free membership at our support site
and review or search the
thousands of messages from those who suffer from MdDS. Here, you will
find caring people who understand what it is like to live with this
rare balance disorder; members are from all over the world. Please join
us to share and learn from others.
The
MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3)
nonprofit PA foundation dedicated to promoting awareness of Mal de
Debarquement Syndrome and seeking treatments and a cure for people
suffering from this disorder.
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Helpful
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Copyright
© 2006-2010, MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation, Inc.
All
rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited. Copyright materials may
not be reproduced in whole or in part by persons, organizations, or
corporations without the prior written permission of the MdDS Balance
Disorder Foundation. The information contained in this web site is not
a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
Last
modified on June 12, 2010
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