Earthquake Drunk: When Your Body Still Shakes Even When the Ground Stops Shaking

After an earthquake, many people may continue to feel like they are “shaking” even after the ground has stopped shaking. Some people may feel dizzy, unsteady, or unsteady while walking. These symptoms are called “earthquake sickness,” which is caused by the imbalance of the nervous system in response to rapid movement.

What is Earthquake Sickness? Earthquake sickness is a dizzy or nauseating sensation that occurs after an earthquake. It is similar to motion sickness, seasickness, or motion sickness because the body’s balance system (especially the organs in the inner ear) cannot adjust quickly to sudden movements or vibrations.

Symptoms of earthquake sickness • Feeling like the ground is still shaking • Dizziness, unsteadiness when walking or standing • Nausea or vomiting • Mild dizziness or blurred vision • Feeling tired or dizzy when in high places • Note: This symptom usually occurs within 24–72 hours after an earthquake and usually goes away on its own.

What causes it? Our nervous system consists of: • Vestibular system: helps control balance • Eyes: send signals about movement • Proprioception: tells us where we are • When an earthquake shakes, the brain receives “conflicting information” from different systems, causing the body to respond slowly or temporarily become confused

How to relieve earthquake sickness • Get enough rest, avoid strenuous activities • Avoid staring at fast-moving screens or movies • Look at still objects to reduce balance confusion • Drink enough water, avoid caffeine or alcohol • If symptoms are severe, use anti-vertigo medications such as Dimenhydrinate as recommended by your doctor

When to see a doctor? • Symptoms do not improve within 3 days • Other symptoms, such as tinnitus, hearing loss, weakness in the arms or legs • Dizziness is severe enough to cause falls or the inability to walk

Bonus tips: • Practice slow, deep breathing to reduce anxiety • Listen to soft music or stay in a quiet place • Avoid being in tall buildings after an earthquake (some people still experience fear and feel unusual “shaking”)

Summary Earthquake motion sickness is not a disease, but a “temporary condition” caused by the nervous system’s response to vibrations. With proper rest and care, it usually goes away on its own within a few days. However, if symptoms do not improve, consult a doctor to rule out other possible underlying causes.

For more information, please call 02-769-2000.