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 and space travel and less commonly, after sleeping on a waterbed, frequent use of high speed elevators, drug toxicity and spontaneously.  Symptoms begin shortly after the cessation of the motion stimulus.

     Symptoms most frequently reported are:

Persistent sensation of motion such as:

Rocking

Bobbing

Swaying

Imbalance

Ataxia - a staggering gait

Fatigue

Difficulty concentrating

     Symptoms less frequently reported include:

Sensitivity to light (i.e.,  fluorescent, strobe, flashing)

Dizziness

Headaches             

Migraine headaches             

Intolerance of busy patterns             

Nausea             

Confusion             

Memory loss

Ear pain and/or fullness

Anxiety

Depression

Symptoms not typically associated with MdDS  include:

Rotational vertigo             

Double vision             

Bouncing vision             

Nystagmus

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 rocking 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.  It has also been reported that symptoms seem to go temporarily unnoticed or seem to disappear during car rides, short train travel or other steady motion experiences.

Additionally, some sufferers have experienced reoccurrences 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.
  

This MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation site is designed for those suffering from MdDS (Mal de Debarquement Syndrome).   If you have been diagnosed or suspect that you have MdDS, 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's like to live with this rare balance disorder.  Our members are welcomed from many countries, so feel free to contact us.

The MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation dedicated to promoting awareness of Mal de Debarquement Syndrome and seeking treatments and a cure for people suffering from this disorder.

Copyright  © 2006-2008   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. The MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation recommends consultation with your doctor or other health care provider.
Page last modified on June 8, 2008. For comments, contact the Web Editor