Particle.news

Download on the App Store

'Space Headaches' Affect Majority of Astronauts, Study Finds

A recent study highlights a significant increase in headaches among astronauts during space missions, pointing to the unique challenges of the space environment.

  • A new study published in Neurology reveals that astronauts may experience migraine and tension-type headaches during long-haul space flights, lasting over 10 days.
  • 92% of astronauts surveyed reported experiencing headaches during space flight, a significant increase from the 38% who reported headaches before the mission.
  • Headaches were more intense and more likely to resemble migraines during the first week of space flight, with changes in gravity affecting the brain's balance and posture system.
  • None of the astronauts reported headaches in the three months following their return to Earth, indicating that the condition may be linked specifically to the space environment.
  • Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes of 'space headaches' and to develop more effective treatments for astronauts.
Hero image