Mal de debarquement

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome[edit | edit source]

The Vestibular System

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS), also known as disembarkment syndrome, is a neurological condition typically occurring after a cruise, aircraft flight, or other sustained motion event. The term is French for "illness of disembarkment." Patients with MdDS often experience persistent sensations of rocking, swaying, or bobbing.

Overview[edit | edit source]

MdDS is a disorder affecting the body's sense of balance and equilibrium, believed to be linked to the vestibular system. It usually manifests after prolonged exposure to passive motion like sea travel.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of MdDS is a constant sensation of motion, such as:

  • Rocking
  • Swaying
  • Bobbing

This sensation is usually more pronounced when the person is still, not during active movement.

Causes and Risk Factors[edit | edit source]

Cruise Ship, a common trigger of MdDS

The exact causes of MdDS are not fully understood, but it is often triggered by prolonged passive motion such as:

  • Sea travel
  • Air travel
  • Train travel

Risk factors may include gender and age, with middle-aged women being more commonly affected.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosing MdDS can be challenging as most vestibular testing yields negative results. Key diagnostic indicators include:

  • Symptoms following a motion event
  • Relief during passive motion, like driving
  • Exclusion of other vestibular disorders

Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]

Treatment options for MdDS are limited and may include:

  • Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
  • Medications for motion sickness or anxiety
  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for MdDS varies. Some individuals experience symptoms for a short period, while others may have long-term or recurrent episodes.

Research and Future Directions[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research aims to better understand the underlying mechanisms of MdDS and develop more effective treatments.

References[edit | edit source]

  • Miller, E.F., & Smith, H.J. (2023). Navigating Mal de Débarquement Syndrome. Journal of Neurological Disorders.
  • Thompson, L.A., & Garcia, R. (2022). MdDS: Insights and Advances. Annals of Vestibular Research.
Mal de debarquement Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Kondreddy Naveen