Woman suffers seasickness for nearly ten years

Added 28/06/2010

Boat in sea

Seasickness affects many of us, and often we experience a rolling, unbalanced sensation after disembarking from a boat. For most people, this sensation doesn’t last more than an hour or so, but for some it can continue for weeks, months or even years.

There is no known cure for the condition, known as Mal de Debarquement Syndrome. It can be a terribly stressful ordeal for those that suffer from the condition.

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome is a rare disorder that more commonly affects women between 40 and 50 years of age. Jane Houghton, aged 46, is one such women who has the disorder, but she’s been suffering from it for nearly a decade.

Mrs. Houghton contracted the disorder after a trip to Palma in Spain in 2001. Since then, she has felt constantly at sea. The continual rocking and rolling motion has plagued her for nearly ten years, and the symptoms are only relieved when she’s on a boat, train or plane.

Her doctor was baffled by her condition, as little research has been done on Mal de Debarquement Syndrome. Her condition was finally confirmed after a visit to the National Hospital of Neurology in London.

Boat rides can be a chore for many travellers. The most common form of seasickness is nausea whilst on the boat. If you suffer from seasickness, there are herbal and prescription medicines you can take to reduce it. Taking ginger or peppermint can help to settle the stomach.

Seasickness affects your balance in the inner ear. Sit in the middle of the boat where there is less motion to reduce the effects of seasickness or seek fresh air to reduce nausea.

If you have recently been on a boat and you think you might be suffering from Mal de Debarquement Syndrome, consult your doctor for a second opinion. There are drugs that have been proven to reduce the symptoms, but finding a cure for the disorder is still a long way off.

News Archive

News Search