Earthquake sickness encompasses a range of physical and psychological symptoms that individuals may experience during and after an earthquake, even after the shaking has stopped.
These symptoms can be both physical and mental and can persist for some time after the earthquake and any aftershocks have ceased. They may include:
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Physical Symptoms:
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or nauseous
- Being sick or having an upset stomach
- Shaking or tingling sensations
- Feeling clammy or breathless
- Difficulty catching a deep breath
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Psychological Symptoms: While the provided reference focuses on physical symptoms, it's important to acknowledge that earthquake sickness can also manifest as anxiety, fear, panic attacks, and a heightened state of alertness or hypervigilance.
The feeling of earthquake sickness is thought to be caused by a combination of factors: the physical shaking itself, the disruption to the body's equilibrium (similar to motion sickness), and the psychological stress of experiencing a traumatic event. The body's natural stress response can trigger a cascade of physiological changes, leading to the symptoms described above.
It's important to seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent symptoms after an earthquake. While many symptoms are temporary and will subside on their own, some may require medical evaluation and treatment. Psychological support may also be beneficial, especially for individuals who have experienced significant trauma during the earthquake.
