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How does microgravity affect us, in paricular our cardiovascualar system and heart functioning?
Microgravity affects our muscles and bones because without the constant pull of gravity, the body does not need to work as hard to support our weight. This can lead to muscle atrophy and bone loss, especially in the lower body. Astronauts on long-duration space missions must engage in regular physical exercise to combat these effects.
In microgravity, the heart does not have to work as hard to pump blood against gravity. This can lead to a decrease in overall cardiovascular fitness and a decrease in red blood cell production. This is why astronauts must exercise regularly to keep their hearts and blood vessels healthy during long-term space missions.
The inner ear, which is responsible for maintaining our sense of balance and coordination, relies on gravity to function properly. In microgravity, the fluids in the inner ear can shift, causing disorientation and difficulty with balance and coordination. It can take some time for the body to adjust to this change, and astronauts may experience motion sickness in the meantime.
Studies have shown that microgravity can affect the function of the immune system, making astronauts more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This is due to a decrease in white blood cell production and changes in the body's response to pathogens. Astronauts must follow strict hygiene protocols and receive vaccinations before space travel to protect against this effect.
In microgravity, there is no day-night cycle like we experience on Earth. This can disrupt our circadian rhythm, the natural sleep-wake cycle that our bodies follow. Astronauts may experience trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, which can lead to fatigue and decreased cognitive function. To combat this, astronauts typically follow a set schedule and use artificial lighting to mimic a day-night cycle.