Land Sickness After Boating: Mal De Debarquement Syndrome (Mdds)

As a lifelong sailor, I’m no stranger to the joys of being out on the open sea. But sometimes, the experience of being on the boat can have a lingering effect – and that’s when it’s time to learn about Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS).

In this article, I’m here to shed some light on this relatively unknown condition, and provide a better understanding of its symptoms, causes, and treatments.

So if you’ve ever felt a bit “land sick” after a boating trip, you’re not alone – and there’s hope. Read on to learn more about MDDS and how to manage it.

What Are the Symptoms?

The primary symptom of MDDS is a persistent feeling of rocking, swaying, or bobbing, even when you are not on the boat. This sensation is often accompanied by dizziness and a feeling of unsteadiness, like you are walking on a trampoline.

Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and anxiety. In more severe cases, people with MDDS may also experience visual disturbances, such as blurred vision, double vision, or blind spots. It can also cause insomnia, ringing in the ears, and balance issues.

The symptoms of MDDS can come and go, and they can be triggered by certain activities, like riding in an elevator, walking in a shopping mall, or even just sitting or standing still.

People with MDDS may also find that their symptoms are worse when there are a lot of people around or when they are in a confined space.

What Causes It?

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS) is an enigmatic condition that has puzzled the medical community for decades. While the exact cause of MDDS remains unknown, there are a few theories that are commonly accepted.

The first theory is that MDDS is caused by a disruption of the vestibular system. This system helps us to maintain balance, and when it is thrown off balance, it can cause symptoms similar to those experienced by MDDS sufferers.

Another theory is that MDDS may be caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body, specifically the hormone serotonin.

Serotonin plays a role in regulating the body’s balance and movement, so an imbalance in serotonin levels could cause the symptoms of MDDS.

It is also possible that MDDS is caused by a combination of both of these theories, as well as other factors. For example, stress, anxiety, or fatigue could all contribute to the onset of MDDS.

At this time, there is no definitive answer as to what causes MDDS. However, the theories mentioned above do provide some insight into the potential causes of this condition. As research continues, the cause of MDDS may become clearer.

How Will My Doctor Test for It?

If you suspect you have Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS) after a boating excursion, it is important to seek medical help. Your doctor can diagnose MdDS with a simple physical exam and a few questions about your medical history.

Your doctor may ask you when your symptoms began, how often they occur, and if they worsen with motion. They may also check your ears, eyes, and balance. These tests help rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.

Your doctor may also order additional tests to help diagnose MdDS. These may include an MRI of the head or an echocardiogram to rule out other causes.

If your doctor suspects that your symptoms may be caused by a mental health issue, they may refer you to a psychiatrist for further evaluation.

Though MdDS has no cure, treatment options can help lessen symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you suspect you may be suffering from MdDS, it is important to seek help from a medical professional.

How Is It Treated?

Fortunately, there are ways to treat Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS). The most common treatments involve vestibular physiotherapy, anti-motion sickness medications, and psychotherapy.

Vestibular physiotherapy helps by retraining the inner ear and balance system to reduce the symptoms of MDDS. This might involve exercises such as head and eye movement, balance training, and walking exercises.

Anti-motion sickness medications, such as meclizine and scopolamine, are also prescribed to reduce the symptoms of MDDS. These medications work by lessening the body’s response to movement.

Finally, psychotherapy can also help by providing emotional support and helping people with MDDS learn to cope with their condition.

For those dealing with MDDS, the best approach is to consult with a medical professional to determine the best course of treatment. With the right combination of therapies, many people with MDDS can successfully manage their symptoms.

Can You Prevent It?

As a sailor, it is important to understand the potential risks associated with boating, including MDDS. Although the exact cause of MDDS is unknown, there are some steps you can take to help reduce your risk.

First, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of MDDS. If you are feeling any of the above symptoms after a day on the water, it is important to seek medical advice immediately.

Second, you should take the time to properly acclimate when making your transition from the boat to the shore. This means taking your time and avoiding quick movements.

Third, drinking plenty of water and eating healthy foods can help reduce the risk of MDDS. Additionally, taking regular breaks and avoiding fatigue can help reduce the risk as well.

Finally, it is important to consider the effects of motion sickness and sea sickness when planning a boating trip. If you are prone to motion or sea sickness, it is important to take the necessary precautions before and during your trip.

By understanding the potential risks associated with boating and taking the necessary steps to prevent them, you can help reduce your risk of MDDS and ensure a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Does Mdds Cause Nausea?

As part of the symptoms of Mal De Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS), some individuals may experience nausea. This is not a universal symptom of MDDS, and the degree to which it is experienced can vary greatly from person to person.

For example, some individuals may experience mild nausea, while others may have more intense feelings of nausea.

While the exact mechanism of MDDS is still not fully understood, it is believed that the symptoms can be caused by an imbalance in the inner ear.

This can lead to feelings of nausea and dizziness. Additionally, the effects of MDDS can be compounded by seasickness, which is caused by the body’s inability to adjust to the movement of the boat.

To help mitigate the effects of MDDS and any associated nausea, it is important to take preventative measures.

This can include avoiding long boat trips, avoiding sudden and drastic changes in speed, and avoiding turbulent waters.

Additionally, some individuals have found that taking motion sickness medications or using anti-nausea patches can help reduce their symptoms.

Overall, MDDS can cause nausea in some individuals, but the degree to which it is experienced can vary. It is important to take preventive measures to help reduce the symptoms of MDDS and any associated nausea.

Does Mdds Ever Go Away?

Living with Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS) can be a challenging and often unpredictable experience.

While MDDS can last for many months or even years, it is important to know that it can also eventually go away.

Recent research suggests that most people with MDDS find that their symptoms gradually lessen over time. In some cases, the syndrome may even disappear completely.

However, the duration of MDDS varies greatly from person to person. Some people experience relief within a few weeks or months, while others may have symptoms that last for many years.

The best thing you can do is to seek professional help and support as soon as possible. A doctor or physical therapist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan so that you can manage your symptoms and work towards getting better.

Can Magnesium Help With Mdds?

MdDS is a form of land sickness that can linger for months or even years after a boat trip. One of the treatments for MdDS is magnesium supplements, which have been shown to reduce the symptoms of MdDS.

Magnesium helps to regulate the body’s balance system, and studies have shown that magnesium deficiency can be a factor in developing MdDS.

For those with MdDS, magnesium supplements can be a safe and effective way to reduce symptoms.

Additionally, increasing magnesium levels in the body can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to the symptoms of MdDS.

It’s important to note that magnesium supplements should be taken only under the guidance of a doctor, as too much magnesium can be harmful.

For those with MdDS, magnesium supplements may be a helpful option to reduce symptoms. I recommend discussing the option of magnesium supplementation with your doctor to determine whether it is a safe and effective treatment for you.”

How Long Does Sickness Of Disembarkment Last?

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS) is an uncommon condition that can cause prolonged sickness after disembarkment from a boat. It can last anywhere from days to months, or even longer in some cases. Unfortunately, the exact cause of MdDS is unknown, making it difficult to predict how long the symptoms may last.

However, studies have found that the duration of MdDS symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Generally, mild MdDS symptoms may last for a few days, while more severe cases may last for weeks or even months. Additionally, some individuals with MdDS may experience symptoms that come and go over time.

Overall, the duration of MdDS symptoms is highly variable and unpredictable. If you are experiencing any symptoms of MdDS, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

How Common Is Mal De Debarquement ?

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS) is a relatively rare disorder that can affect individuals after disembarking from a boat or other vessel.

The exact prevalence of MDDS is unknown, but some estimates suggest that it may affect 2 to 3% of individuals who have recently disembarked from a boat or other vessel.

It is also thought to affect individuals more commonly after long voyages or trips, although this is yet to be definitively proven.

While MDDS is not a life-threatening condition, it can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and should not be ignored.

If you believe you may be suffering from MDDS, it is important to consult with your doctor as soon as possible.

Conclusion On Land Sickness After Boating

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDS) is a rare disorder that affects many people who go boating. It is characterized by a feeling of swaying, rocking, or bobbing motions even when a person is on solid ground.

While the causes of MDDS are still not fully understood, it is believed to be caused by a disruption in the vestibular system. Symptoms of MDDS can range from mild dizziness to extreme nausea and vomiting.

Fortunately, MDDS can often be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and physical therapy.

It is important for anyone who experiences symptoms of MDDS to talk to their doctor about proper treatment. With the right treatment, symptoms can often be reduced or eliminated altogether.

As a sailor, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of MDDS and to consult with a doctor if they are experienced. By taking the right precautions, we can make sure that our boating experiences are enjoyable and safe.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope it has helped you better understand Mal de Debarquement Syndrome and how to manage it.