Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS)

What does MdDS mean?

Mal de debarquement means “sickness of disembarkment.” The term originally referred to the illusion of movement felt after travel by ship or boat. Experts now term MdDS as a vestibular disorder characterized by continuous rocking or swaying in the absence of movement.

What causes MdDS?

It can occur after almost any type of motion ranging from being on a moving dock to a cruise ship or boat. It can also occur after the motion of a plane, train, or car. It is unknown why some people suffer more from it than others. It is most common in women aged 30-60 and is also more common with people who suffer from migraines.

What are the symptoms of MdDS?

The main symptoms include rocking, swaying, or bobbing in the absence of motion. Other symptoms may include anxiety, depression, fatigue, brain fog, or difficulty focusing. Symptoms usually subside with movement (ie riding in a car) but get worse when there is no movement.

How is MdDS diagnosed?

It is important to medically rule out causes for the symptoms. Physicians may do imaging or blood tests. Audio-Vestibular testing is also recommended to ensure all inner ear sensors for balance and associated nerves are functioning properly.

How is MdDS treated?

MdDS may go away on its own usually within a year.

Medications: Medications used for depression or anxiety may help. Medications for motion sensitivity are not generally effective.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is used to help with steadiness, balance, and grounding. Traditional VRT is not often successful so it is important to make sure that the practitioner is experienced in working with MdDS.

Lifestyle measures: such as managing stress, exercise, sleeping well, and diet may help reduce symptoms.