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Sub-Category:

Motion Sensitivity Disorders

Number of Conditions: 1

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS)

Specialty: Ear

Category: Balance and Vestibular Disorders

Sub-category: Motion Sensitivity Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent sensation of rocking, swaying, or bobbing (often described as feeling ‘like being on a boat’); fatigue; difficulty concentrating (‘brain fog’); headache; dizziness; anxiety or depression (as a result of the chronic symptoms)

Root Cause:
MdDS is believed to occur due to the brain's inability to readjust its perception of movement and balance after prolonged exposure to passive motion, such as on a boat, airplane, or train. The exact neurological mechanism is not well understood.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed clinically by a sensation of rocking after travel.

Treatment:
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, motion desensitization techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and in some cases, medications.

Medications:
Medications may help alleviate symptoms. Commonly prescribed drugs include benzodiazepines or antidepressants to manage symptoms.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence is unknown but considered rare. More common among middle-aged women and individuals after prolonged motion exposure.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender (particularly middle-aged women). Prolonged exposure to passive motion (e.g., cruises, long flights, car rides). History of motion sensitivity or migraines.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms often resolve within weeks to months but can persist for years in some cases. Prognosis is variable and depends on individual response to treatments.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic fatigue and impaired quality of life. Anxiety and depression due to persistent symptoms. Potential difficulties with employment or daily functioning.