AbstractFew studies have investigated cardiac arrhythmias during spaceflight. Atrial and ventricular premature contractions, short‐duration atrial fibrillation, and non‐sustained ventricular tachycardia were reported by previous spaceflight programs. Some of these arrhythmias occurred following extravehicular activity in space. Arrhythmias during spaceflight are related with hypokalemia, microgravity, changes in the autonomic nervous system, and physical stress. Some astronauts have needed radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial arrhythmias. Future long‐duration spaceflights beyond the Earth's orbit may expose astronauts to significant levels of radiation that affect the coronary arteries. Genetic tests for arrhythmias might be added to the present cardiac screening examinations in the future.


    Access

    Download


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Cardiac arrhythmias during long‐duration spaceflights


    Additional title:

    Journal of Arrhythmia


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Journal of Arrhythmia ; 30 , 3 ; 139-149


    Publication date :

    2014-06-01




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English