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MdDS
Symptom Severity Scale*
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0 No
sensation of abnormal motion.
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1-2
Sensation of rocking/bobbing/swaying is almost imperceptible. Most
often noticed while walking but may also be recognized while sitting,
standing or lying down. Can usually perform routine daily functions
without the need for rest periods.
-
3-4
Rocking/bobbing/swaying sensation is almost constant but can function
fairly well with occasional rest periods. The sensation of
rocking/bobbing/swaying may include the perception of movement along
either a horizontal or vertical axis. The floor seems to move when
walking (as if walking on a suspension bridge, water bed, or
trampoline). Altered balance. Cannot remain standing in a fixed
position with eyes closed.
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5-6
Rocking/bobbing/swaying intensity is increased. Accompanied
by difficulty in concentration and/or mental confusion (impaired
cognitive function). Most routine tasks become difficult to
accomplish. Require periods of rest. May stumble when walking.
-
7-8
Rocking/bobbing/swaying is more severe and noticeable while
walking, standing, or sitting. Associated with considerable fatigue.
Increased loss of concentration and/or mental confusion. Balance
is affected (bump into objects when walking; clumsy in handling
objects; may drop things).
9-10 Rocking/bobbing/swaying is
extremely severe. Balance is very poor. Require support for walking
and standing (have to hold onto walls). Significant mental confusion.
Impaired ability to speak. Remain in bed most of the day.
*This symptom scale and the information provided herein are the summarized
experiences of many patients with established MdDS. Many patients
often have greater awareness and more intense symptoms in the
"initial" phase of this syndrome; subsequently, there is usually
a transition into symptoms of "sustained" MdDS. In
addition, throughout the course of MdDS, symptom severity may vary during
a given daily interval.
Temporary
remissions may occur as brief intervals (e.g., for hours, days, or
weeks). As a given course of MdDS progresses toward sustained remission,
symptoms may become less severe and temporary remissions more frequent
(although, sometimes, symptoms are alleviated overnight!). In some
patients, repeated bouts of MdDS occur over many years and are usually
associated with another precipitating event, e.g., cruise, boat, or
airplane travel.
Clinical
studies have not been performed to validate this symptom scale.
Comprehensive clinical research studies are necessary in order to
characterize the important features of disease presentation/progression,
to provide an unambiguous diagnosis, and to establish optimum treatments
or therapies.
MdDS
Symptoms are often increased:
-
by
stress
-
with
lack of sleep
-
after
working at a computer for extended intervals
-
in
bright lights
-
in
long hallways or aisles (such as in supermarkets)
-
in
stairwells
-
with
changes in barometric (weather) pressure
-
in
association with allergy symptoms
-
at
the end of the day
MdDS
Symptoms are often alleviated:
-
during
travel. e.g., movement/motion in a car or airplane
-
after
establishing a vigorous exercise program
-
after
establishing a vestibular exercise program
MdDS
Symptoms may be associated with:
-
normal
results in most clinical tests, e.g., MRI, ENG
-
migraine,
with or without headache
-
feeling
of pressure inside the head
-
fullness
or pressure in ears
-
history
of neck (cervical spine) pain
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.
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