Are there other names for MdDS?
MdDS
is an abbreviation for Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (a French name)
which translates into sickness upon disembarking (leaving a boat). This
disorder is also known as Disembarkment or Debarkment Syndrome or
landsickness.
Several years ago, I had MdDS that spontaneously resolved.
Will I develop this again if I go on another cruise?
Some individuals who have had MdDS that had resolved
subsequently redeveloped symptoms after a subsequent cruise. (However,
there are some who did not.) Many describe a more prolonged period of
MdDS symptoms with each episode. Therefore, the recommendation is to
avoid further cruises to minimize the likelihood that MdDS will
recur.
I have MdDS. Will symptoms become worse if I go on a cruise
or undertake extended travel by air, train, or car?
Not necessarily. However, some individuals have described a
transient increase in symptoms after these type of motion experiences.
When will this be over?
In most individuals who develop symptoms of MdDS following a
cruise or other motion experience, the symptoms of MdDS (rocking,
bobbing, swaying) often gradually dissipate and disappear altogether.
In general, this is more likely to happen for those who are younger.
But, for a few and with age, these symptoms may persist for an extended
interval.
Where can I go to get diagnosed?
This is sometimes difficult since many health
care providers still do not know about MdDS. A list of possible
providers is available on this site.
Is there a cure?
Unfortunately, no.
Is there a treatment which reduces symptoms?
Some are benefited with medications and vestibular
rehabilitation therapy. And, a regular exercise program seems to help
many.
Are MdDS symptoms worse during a woman's period (menses)?
Many women experience increased symptoms before or during
their menstrual cycle. MdDS is more common in women than men (9:1) and
seems to be more common in peri-menopausal (middle-aged) women,
however, the role of hormones in the exacerbation/remission of
MdDS symptoms is not understood.
Are there any clinical trials/research studies being
conducted on MdDS?
This is a rare disease and research studies are similarly
rare. To our knowledge, there are only two active research
studies on MdDS. One is being conducted at the University of
California at
Los Angeles (UCLA) by Dr. Yoon-Hee Cha. The other is underway at Ohio
University by Dr. Brian C. Clark. Both of these studies are funded, in
part, by this Foundation.
