View source for Space adaptation syndrome

==Overview==
'''Space Adaptation Syndrome''' (SAS) is a condition that affects some individuals in space, particularly during the initial stages of spaceflight. <ref>Thornton WE, Moore TP. (1987) Space Motion Sickness and Space Adaptation Syndrome. NASA Technical Paper 2873.</ref><ref> Kornilova LN. (1997) Vestibular function and space adaptation syndrome. Journal of Vestibular Research, 7(2-3): 207-217.</ref>

==Causes==
SAS is caused by the body's struggle to adapt to the microgravity environment, where the usual cues for balance and spatial orientation are disrupted. This leads to a conflict between the sensory inputs from the inner ear, eyes, and proprioceptors (sensors that detect movement and position).<ref>Reschke MF, Kornilova L, Harm D, Bloomberg J, Paloski W. (1998) Neurophysiological and behavioral responses to spaceflight. In: Med J (ed) Space Biology and Medicine, Volume 2.</ref>

==Symptoms==
The symptoms of SAS are similar to those experienced with motion sickness, but the cause is different. Common symptoms include:

*Space motion sickness (similar to car sickness)
*Dizziness and disorientation
*Nausea and vomiting
*Headaches
*Fatigue
*Difficulty sleeping
*Decreased appetite

==Triggers==
SAS can be triggered by various factors, including:
*Microgravity environment
*Visual-vestibular mismatch (conflict between what the eyes and inner ear perceive)
*Changes in body position and movement
*Spacecraft motion and vibrations

==Duration==
The duration of SAS varies, but it usually subsides within 2-3 days as the body adapts to the new environment.<ref>Jones DR. (1992) Space adaptation syndrome. In: DeHart RL (ed) Fundamentals of Aerospace Medicine. Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia, pp 157-173.</ref>

==Countermeasures==
Astronauts and cosmonauts often undergo training to help them prepare for and mitigate the effects of SAS. Medication and other countermeasures can also be used to alleviate symptoms.

==History==
SAS was first identified during the early years of spaceflight, when astronauts experienced symptoms similar to motion sickness. Since then, research has been conducted to understand the causes and effects of SAS, and to develop countermeasures to mitigate its effects.

==See also==
*[[Motion sickness]]
*[[Microgravity]]

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Space Medicine]]