Medical experts voice serious concerns over the health of a NASA astronaut who has returned to Earth after enduring nine months in space.
Doctors raise alarms over Sunita Williams’ health after her return to Earth
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently returned to Earth after spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Medical experts have raised concerns after observing changes in her physical appearance.
A newly released NASA photo shows Williams looking noticeably frail, prompting discussions about the health effects of prolonged space travel.
Visible physical changes spark concerns
Medical professionals highlighted Williams’ noticeably thin wrists, suggesting they could indicate significant weight loss, muscle atrophy in her arms, and decreased bone density, according to experts who spoke with DailyMail.com.
They also pointed out the IV attached to Williams’ wrist, explaining that it is likely being used to replenish hydration and electrolytes.
In microgravity, the body is tricked into expelling essential fluids, leading to dehydration.
Comparing before-and-after images, Williams appears to have grayer hair, more pronounced wrinkles, and a visibly gaunter face.
However, specialists see the astronauts’ ability to walk within 24 hours of their return as a positive sign.
Some had feared it might take days for them to regain that ability.
Walking so soon after landing is a positive sign
Despite her physical changes, experts say Williams’ ability to walk within 24 hours of landing is promising.
Some feared she might take days to regain mobility after her extended time in space.
NASA personnel greeted Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore as they underwent medical evaluations after their return.
Extended space mission was not planned
Williams and Wilmore were originally scheduled to spend only eight days on the ISS.
However, technical issues with their spacecraft, Boeing’s Starliner, led to multiple delays.
As a result, they remained in space for 286 days before returning to Earth aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule.
Experts explain the effects of prolonged weightlessness
Dr. John Jaquish, a biomedical engineer, emphasized the toll that extended space travel takes on the body.
He explained that microgravity affects digestion, muscle function, and bone density.
Without regular weight-bearing activity, astronauts lose muscle mass and experience ligament and tendon shrinkage.
Women are more vulnerable to bone loss in space
Dr. Olalekan Otulana, a general practitioner, noted that Williams’ thin wrists might indicate muscle atrophy in her forearms.
Dr. Vinay Gupta, a pulmonologist, added that women are more prone to bone density loss due to smaller bones and hormonal changes after menopause. This increases the risk of fractures and mobility issues.
Dr. Jaquish also explained that digestion slows in microgravity, making it harder for astronauts to absorb nutrients.
A reduced calorie intake can contribute to muscle and bone loss.
Dr. David Shafer, a metabolic wellness expert, pointed out that while space-friendly food has improved, it cannot fully replace the nutrition provided by a varied Earth-based diet.
Recovery from space travel takes time
NASA reports that most astronauts regain their pre-mission fitness levels within 45 days.
However, recovery times vary, with some requiring months or even years.
As Williams and Wilmore continue medical testing at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, experts will monitor their progress and assess the long-term impact of their extended mission.
The return of Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore highlights the challenges astronauts face after long-duration space missions.
While walking soon after landing is a positive sign, doctors remain concerned about Williams’ muscle loss, bone density, and overall health. NASA will continue to study the effects of space travel to improve astronaut health and safety in future missions.