What is it called when you feel weird after flying?

Disembarkment Syndrome: The Weird Feeling After Flying

Upon disembarking from a flight, you may experience a peculiar sensation of being unsteady or rocking, as if you’re still in motion. This is a condition known as Disembarkment Syndrome, also referred to as landsickness or Rocking Dizziness.

Disembarkment Syndrome arises from a temporary mismatch between your perception and reality. While the plane has come to a halt, your inner ear, which helps control balance, takes a little longer to adjust. This discrepancy can lead to a feeling of disorientation or swaying.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Disembarkment Syndrome can vary in severity and duration. Common symptoms include:

• Feeling unsteady or rocking
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Confusion or disorientation

Causes

Disembarkment Syndrome is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Motion sickness: Prolonged exposure to the movement of the plane can trigger motion sickness, which can lead to feelings of nausea and dizziness.
• Changes in air pressure: The rapid changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing can affect the balance system in your inner ear.
• Dehydration: Air travel can dehydrate you, which can worsen symptoms of disequilibrium.
• Anxiety: Flying can be a stressful experience, which can also contribute to feelings of dizziness.

Treatment

Most cases of Disembarkment Syndrome are mild and resolve themselves within a few hours. However, there are some measures you can take to manage the symptoms:

• Rest: Give yourself plenty of time to rest after your flight.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These substances can worsen dehydration and dizziness.
• Sit or lie down: If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
• Practice balance exercises: Performing simple balance exercises can help retrain your inner ear.

When to Seek Medical Attention

In most cases, Disembarkment Syndrome is not a serious condition. However, if your symptoms are severe or persistent, you should seek medical attention. This is especially important if you experience the following:

• Numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Confusion or disorientation that lasts more than a few hours
• Severe nausea or vomiting

Preventing Disembarkment Syndrome

There is no guaranteed way to prevent Disembarkment Syndrome, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:

• Choose a window seat: This allows you to look outside and help your body adjust to the motion of the plane.
• Move around during the flight: Get up and walk around the plane regularly to keep your circulation going.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout your flight.
• Take over-the-counter motion sickness medication: If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking an over-the-counter medication before your flight.

Disembarkment Syndrome is a common and usually harmless condition that can occur after flying. By understanding its causes and symptoms, you can manage its effects and enjoy your travels without feeling uneasy.