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How long do you feel dizzy after getting off a cruise?

Within a day or so, your land legs likely will return and the symptoms will disappear. However, for a rare few returning vacationers, this persistent sensation of motion or dizziness can continue for weeks or even longer. The disorder is called mal de debarquement syndrome.



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While the effects typically clear up in a few hours after returning to land, they can last for as long as two days. Symptoms can also return, or increase in intensity, if the condition is triggered.

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The disorder is called mal de debarquement syndrome. “It is a phenomenon that isn't fully understood,” says audiologist Julie Honaker, PhD CCC-A, Director of Cleveland Clinic's Vestibular and Balance Disorders Laboratories. “We think it may have to do with the brain rather than the inner ears.”

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As we mentioned, some passengers won't feel anything at sea, but for those who do, the good news is that seasickness usually only lasts a day or two. The effects tend to stop once the motion causing them does, or until we learn to adapt to the sensation.

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Disembarkment syndrome is a medical condition that may occur following a sustained motion event like an aircraft flight or cruise. It is a neurological condition that is normally diagnosed by a neurologist when the sufferer reports a persistent swaying, rocking, or bobbing sensation.

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How to Avoid Getting Seasick on a Cruise
  1. Pack Your Medicine.
  2. Get a Good Night's Sleep.
  3. Remember to Eat.
  4. Get Some Air.
  5. Watch the Horizon.
  6. Avoid Books and Screens.
  7. Head to the Middle.
  8. Try Acupressure.


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When you get back on shore, you need time to get your land legs back. That usually happens within a few minutes or hours, but it can take up to 2 days. With mal de debarquement syndrome, though, you can't shake the feeling that you're still on the boat.

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DIMENHYDRINATE (dye men HYE dri nate) prevents and treats nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It works by helping your body maintain its sense of balance.

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With mal de debarquement syndrome, though, you can't shake the feeling that you're still on the boat. That's French for “sickness of disembarkment.” You feel like you're rocking or swaying even though you're not. It can happen to anyone, but it's much more common in women ages 30 to 60.

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Key takeaways: Post-vacation depression is feeling sad, down, or blue at the end of or after a vacation. Symptoms can include fatigue, lack of motivation, and worry. Stress at work, dissatisfaction with life, and lack of relaxation while vacationing can all cause post-vacation depression.

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In 2023, a decade-high number of cruise ships have reported an unwelcome passenger on board: norovirus. Outbreaks of the stomach bug have surged on cruise ships this year, reaching the highest levels seen in 10 years.

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The middle of the ship and not too high is your safest bet. A mid-ship stateroom with a balcony for quick access to fresh air may be ideal. If not available, consider a room that is either lower or closer to the back, as the front of the ship tends to experience the most movement.

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