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Suggest Treatment For Mal De Debarquement Syndrome

Posted on Tue, 13 Jan 2015

Question: Hello. My name is XXXXXXX and I am a 29 year old female. I was on my first cruise and was on the boat for 7 days. I got off the boat Sunday morning (so 3 days now) and I am still feeling dizzy. It almost feels like I am a little drunk. I am easily distracted and have to focus more to accomplish anything and my balance is off. In the morning I feel pretty good but it gets worse as the day goes. I felt similar on the boat but associated it with the motion. Today I have twice felt nauseas and it lasts for about 20 minutes and subsides. The flu is going around but I checked and my temperature is normal. Not sure if this is something I just have to wait out or if there is something I can do. PS - I am in the middle of my period, so I know that I am not pregnant.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Mal de Debarquement Syndrome...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

The description given by you seems to be related to a condition called Mal de debarquement syndrome. This is a type of vertigo that most often occurs only after stepping off a cruise ship. Eventhough, most of the individuals do recover from the sense of imbalance, seldom it can be debilitating.

Studies show that over 90 percent of all the affected patients are women. Symptoms usually last less than a month, although some suffer for much longer.

The cause is thought to be malfunctioning of the vestibulo-ocular reflex. There is no specific test to identify the problem. And, treatment includes anti-anxiety medicines and vestibular rehabilitation exercises devised by Mount Sinai Health System.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (20 minutes later)

Thank you for your assistance. Is there anything over the counter that can help the symptoms? Could an herbal anti-anxiety help? Is there a point to go in and see a doctor? I work part time at a restaurant so the lack of focus and slight unsteadiness on my feet could make working difficult. I really can't afford to be missing work but right now there are times that working my desk job is more difficult.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consult a neurologist...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

I do understand your concern, hence, please consult a neurologist. The anti-anxiety medicines are available only with prescription. You can try herbal medicine Gingko Biloba or Cinnarizine, but, I'm not sure how far these medicines would be beneficial in your case. The success varies from one individual to another.

Wish you good luck and good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj