North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society (NANOS) member describes novel eye findings in astronauts after long duration space flight.
A newly published ophthalmologic study recently described the history, clinical findings, and possible etiologist of novel ophthalmic findings discovered in astronauts after long-duration space flights. The study is published in Ophthalmology , the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
The authors reported eye exam findings in seven astronauts as well as an analysis of post-flight questionnaires regarding in-flight vision changes in approximately 300 additional astronauts. The seven astronauts with ocular anomalies had returned from long-duration space missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and all seven subjects went through complete eye examinations. After six months of space flight, all seven astronauts had eye findings, including swollen optic nerves, distortion of the shape of the eyeball, and retinal changes. Most became more farsighted, and had blurred vision, especially at near. The spinal taps showed either top normal or slightly elevated pressures in the spinal fluid surrounding the brain and optic nerves.
Many astronauts on short and long-duration missions, respectively, experienced a worsening of distance or near visual acuity. Some of these vision changes remain unresolved years after flight. This could have been brought about by prolonged exposure to low gravity. The findings might represent parts of a spectrum of ocular and brain responses to extended exposure to low gravity.
