Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, only the second Indian to travel to space and the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS), returned safely to Earth on Tuesday after an 18-day mission. Shukla stepped out of the space capsule after completing 288 revolutions around the Earth with his fellow astronauts.
While space travel may seem exciting, it also puts the human body under extreme stress. Astronauts face various health issues once they return to Earth. From weaker bones to balance issues, zero gravity takes a toll on the human body, even on highly trained astronauts like Shukla. So, what health problems do astronauts face once they return to Earth? We got in touch with experts who share insights on what Shukla might face after landing.
What happens to the body in space?
In space, the absence of gravity causes bodily fluids to move upward toward the head, increasing pressure in the eyes and sometimes leading to vision problems. Without gravity pulling on the body, bones, especially those that support weight, like the hips and legs, begin to lose mineral density at a rate of about 1 to 1.5 per cent per month.
“Astronauts often feel weak, tired, and dizzy after spending about two weeks in space,” explains Dr. Vipul Gupta, Director of Neurointerventional Surgery at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai. “They may also experience muscle loss and softening of bones, making them more prone to injuries,” he added.
Even though astronauts follow daily exercise routines and a strict diet while in orbit, these measures don’t always fully prevent physical changes.
Common health issues after space missions
Returning to Earth’s gravity is another challenge. Astronauts need time to readjust, and during this phase, they may face several health problems.
Dr. Chaitanya Kulkarni, Consultant, Internal Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, says, “They may feel dizzy, light-headed, or may even faint due to orthostatic intolerance, a condition where the blood pressure drops when standing up.”
Some of the most common problems astronauts face after returning include:
- Muscle weakness and joint stiffness
- Loss of bone density (similar to osteoporosis)
- Balance and coordination issues
- Blurred vision or eye pressure
- Sleep disturbances and mood swings
- Higher infection risk due to lowered immunity
- Mental fatigue from being in confined spaces
- Increased risk of kidney stones due to calcium loss
Why are astronauts quarantined after landing
Once astronauts return to Earth, they are not allowed to meet the public immediately. They are kept in quarantine, closely monitored by medical teams, and have to take several tests to assess their physical and mental health.
“Every astronaut reacts differently to space travel. Some recover in just two weeks, while others may take longer,” says Dr. Gupta.
So, how do astronauts recover post-landing back on Earth?
Astronauts like Shukla go through a recovery program to get back to normal. This includes:
- Physiotherapy to regain muscle strength and balance
- Heart monitoring and blood pressure checks
- Vision tests and eye scans
- Bone density evaluations
- Mental health support to manage stress and mood changes
Doctors also use advanced tools like MRI scans and spinal ultrasounds to track changes in bone and muscle structure. Regular fitness tests ensure their heart is functioning well after the mission.
