MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation

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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.

Informational Brochure  

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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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. 

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Last modified on June 12,  2010