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People warned they could have rare disorder if they feel number of side effects after being on cruise ship

Home> Lifestyle> Travel

Published 12:01 29 Apr 2025 GMT+1

People warned they could have rare disorder if they feel number of side effects after being on cruise ship

In rare cases, the disorder can linger for months or even years after hopping off a cruise ship

Kegan Marquez

Kegan Marquez

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Ever got off a cruise ship and felt like you're still moving? Well, it turns out people are being warned that the sensation could be a rare disorder.

Symptoms include the feeling that you are still rocking, bobbing, and swaying from the waves, leaving sufferers feeling disorientated, even when they're back on dry land.

According to Cleveland Clinic, the health disorder can even leave you confused, with anxiety, depression, and brain fog, with symptoms worsening when you are standing still or lying down.

In most cases, the sensation of movement tends to fade within a few days. However, in some cases, people have reported lingering effects after travelling on a cruise ship that have lasted much longer than a few days.

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Its a rare condition (David Sacks/Getty stock photo)
Its a rare condition (David Sacks/Getty stock photo)

The disorder is called Mal de débarquement syndrome (MdDS) and while cruise ships tend to be the most common trigger for it, many people have also reported suffering from the condition after a flight and even while using lifts.

Another concern for sufferers which is commonly overlooked is issues surrounding VR headsets.

VR headsets are designed to trick your brain into thinking a virtual environment is reality. And as exciting as this may be, for MdDS sufferers, it could trigger lasting symptoms which could take days to shake off.

Who is more at risk of MdDS?

MdDS is more prevalent among women aged 30 to 60, and tends to impact those with a long history of migraines much more.

But that doesn't mean you can't get it if you don't fall into that bracket.

Feeling wobbly? (Getty Stock Images)
Feeling wobbly? (Getty Stock Images)

What actually causes MdDS?

While doctors are aware of MdDS and its symptoms, they still are yet to uncover what causes the condition in the first place.

The most common theory among experts is that it is caused by the vestibular system, which helps a person to maintain balance even while they're on a moving surface.

And if you're thinking about taking a shorter trip to escape the symptoms, it's bad news I'm afraid. Experts also suggest that the length of travel has no bearing on the symptoms or their severity.

Is there anything you can do to reduce your chances of developing MdDS?

While there is currently no known way to prevent MdDS symptoms, according to sufferers on Cruise Critic, there are a few tips and tricks to help you overcome the symptoms a little quicker and get your land legs back.

As well as over-the-counter medications, many users have suggested simple activities such as taking a light walk and making sure to stay hydrated are enough to help combat the symptoms a little quicker.

Experiencing a temporary sense of motion after a cruise is common and typically resolves itself quickly.

However, if these sensations persist, they may signify MdDS, making you one of the rare unlucky people with the condition.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images

Topics: Health, Travel, Cruise Ship

Kegan Marquez
Kegan Marquez

Kegan is a freelance writer with a passion for everything tech and gaming. He has worked for global brands across the globe, including IGN, PCgamer, PCmag and many more. When he isn't working, Kegan spends most of his time playing video games, building and upgrading gaming PCs and looking for the next thing in tech to obsess about.

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