Neural changes in microgravity: Investigating the effects of aerospace environments

Technological, human, and financial advances have led to an increase in space exploration and, as a result, commercial space travel. Companies such as Space X and Blue Origin are exploring ways to make space travel possible. As a result, the number of patients with space-related neurological disorders may increase. Therefore, the management of neurological disorders in high-risk patients requires a thorough understanding of spaceflight exposure. The neural system physiology is significantly impacted by aerospace environments through various mechanisms including hypoxia, decompression sickness, cardiovascular system adaptations to microgravity and acceleration forces. These effects underscore the importance of understanding and mitigating these physiological changes to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals operating in aerospace environments. Potential benefits of spaceflight on the nervous system include psychological growth and improvements in memory and learning. Future space travelers who lack the physiological reserve of current astronauts may experience neurological problems as a result of the physiological and psychological stresses of space travel. As we continue to understand more about human adaptation to microgravity and the potential medical problems that may arise, the capabilities of healthcare must continue to progress to match the ambition of multinational corporations. In conclusion, there appear to be many factors that can affect the nervous system and lead to neurological diseases in people who travel to space. As space travel becomes more accessible to the general public these nervous system effects will need to become a staple of the future neurologist's clinical practice.