The lung in space

Prisk, G. Kim

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NASA NTRS · 20050240521

The lung in space

Prisk, G. Kim

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Abstract

The lung is exquisitely sensitive to gravity, which induces gradients in ventilation, blood flow, and gas exchange. Studies of lungs in microgravity provide a means of elucidating the effects of gravity. They suggest a mechanism by which gravity serves to match ventilation to perfusion, making for a more efficient lung than anticipated. Despite predictions, lungs do not become edematous, and there is no disruption to, gas exchange in microgravity. Sleep disturbances in microgravity are not a result of respiratory-related events; obstructive sleep apnea is caused principally by the gravitational effects on the upper airways. In microgravity, lungs may be at greater risk to the effects of inhaled aerosols.

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Review NASA Discipline Cardiopulmonary Non-NASA Center Weightlessness/adverse effects Respiratory Physiology Lung Volume Measurements Lung/physiology Space Flight Exercise/physiology Hypogravity Sleep/physiology Humans Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S

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Prisk, G. Kim. 2005-09-01. The lung in space. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20050240521

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