Post-Earthquake Dizziness Syndrome: Understanding Quake Aftershocks

Recently we have faced earthquakes in Dhaka city and surrounding areas near the Dhaka city. Earthquake leave behind more than broken buildings and cracked roads. For many people, the real struggle begins after the ground stops shaking. One of the most common and often overlooked problem is “Post Earthquake Dizziness Syndrome”, a temporary but unsettling condition in which people feel dizzy, off balance or as if the earth is still moving This experience can be confusing or unsettle especially for the people who have never felt the earthquake ever. While it is not officially classified as a disease in medical science but doctors and researchers increasingly classified it as a real and understandable response to a traumatic event.

During an earthquake, the body goes through a sudden and intense sensory confusion. The eyes see the world is shaking, the inner ear feels motion and the brain tries adopt the events by conflicting signals. Even after the earthquake, the nervous system may continue to react as if danger is still present. This mismatch between what the body expects and what is actually happening often leads to lingering sensations of motion. Many people describe it as a gentle swaying under their feet, a feeling similar to being a boat. Some people also complain that they feel light headed, unsteady and strangely detached from their surroundings.

Stress plays a major role. Earthquake strike without warning and the fear they generate is powerful. The sudden release of adrenaline prepares the body to escape but once the threat is gone, the body needs time to adapt the situation. The sympathetic nervous system doesn’t go off instantly. It stays hyper-alert, heightening physical sensation. For some people, this leads to dizziness that can last hours, days or even weeks. Some people also experienced the strong aftershock and causes longer duration. It reactivates the body’s stress response.

The inner ear is an important part of the story. It contains structures that help maintain balance by detecting motion. During an earthquake, these structures are overstimulated. When the shaking finally stops, the brain can misinterpret normal signal as movement. It just like similar to “Land Sickness” after a long sea journey. It adapts and adjust the body to motion. It takes time to the body to readjust the stability.

Symptoms vary from person to person. The most common ones include persistent dizziness, a floating sensation, brief episodes of imbalance, and a feeling that the environment is subtly tilting. Some people also experience headaches, nausea, trouble focusing, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Fatigue is common because the body is working harder than usual to stay balanced. Anxiety often makes the symptoms worse. People may worry that another earthquake is coming, that they are seriously ill, or that they are losing control of their senses.

Despite how disturbing these symptoms can be, the good news is that they are usually temporary. Most cases resolve on their own once the brain and inner ear recalibrate. Recovery can be faster with a few simple steps. Getting enough rest is essential because fatigue amplifies dizziness. Staying hydrated also helps the inner ear function properly. Light physical activity, such as walking, encourages the brain to readjust to normal movement patterns. Many people benefit from grounding techniques, like focusing on steady objects or placing both feet firmly on the floor when a wave of dizziness arrives. Avoiding excessive screen time can also reduce discomfort since fast-moving visuals may worsen symptoms.

Emotional support is just as important as physical care. Talking about the experience with friends, family, or a counselor can reduce anxiety and ease the recovery process. Earthquake trauma is real, even for people who were not physically injured. Acknowledging that emotional shock can influence physical sensations is the first step toward healing. If dizziness persists for several weeks or becomes severe, it’s wise to consult a doctor. They can rule out other conditions such as vertigo, inner ear infections, or low blood pressure. In some cases, supervised vestibular exercises may help strengthen the balance system.

Communities also play a role in addressing this often-ignored issue. Public awareness reduces unnecessary fear and prevents misinformation. When people understand that lingering dizziness is a common response to earthquakes, they feel less isolated and more confident in seeking help. Health workers in earthquake-prone regions should be trained to recognize the syndrome and explain it in simple, reassuring terms. Schools and workplaces can support survivors by offering a calm environment, basic health guidance, and access to mental health resources.

Post-Earthquake Dizziness Syndrome reminds us that disasters affect the body and mind long after the immediate danger has passed. While buildings can be repaired, the human nervous system takes time to heal. Recognizing and responding to these invisible aftershocks is part of protecting community health. Most importantly, those who experience this condition should know they are not alone. The sensations, though uncomfortable, are a normal response to a frightening event and usually fade with time. With rest, reassurance, and understanding, survivors can regain their sense of stability.


SMM Musabbir Uddin is a
student of Universal Medical
College, Dhaka.