Mal de debarquement

Mal de débarquement syndrome (MdDS; French: syndrome du mal de débarquement, lit. 'disembarkment illness syndrome'), also known as disembarkment syndrome, is a neurological condition usually occurring after a cruise, aircraft flight, or other sustained motion event. The French phrase mal de débarquement translates to "illness of disembarkment".

MdDS is typically diagnosed by a neurologist or an ear nose and throat specialist when a person reports a persistent rocking, swaying, or bobbing feeling (though they are not necessarily rocking). This usually follows a cruise or other motion experience. Since most vestibular testing proves to be negative, doctors may not see clear signs as they attempt to diagnose the syndrome. A major diagnostic indicator is that most patients feel better while driving or riding in a car, i.e., while in passive motion.

MdDS is unexplained by structural brain or inner ear pathology and most often corresponds with a motion trigger, although it can occur spontaneously. This differs from the very common condition of "land sickness" that most people feel for a short time after a motion event such as a boat cruise, aircraft ride, or even a treadmill routine which may only last minutes to a few hours.

Since 2020, the syndrome has received increased attention due to the number of people presenting with the condition, and more scientific research has commenced in determining what triggers MdDS and how to cure it. This is also due to the fact that MdDs is now officially recognized (2020).