Knock Knock Eye: What Really Happens to Your Eyes in Space?

In this episode I explore the science behind eye dilation and whether there’s a way to reverse it (spoiler: there isn’t). I also discuss space blindness, a phenomenon astronauts experience due to fluid shifts in microgravity, and what NASA is doing to combat it. Takeaways: You Can’t Reverse Eye Dilation (Safely): Dr. Flanary explains why pilocarpine, a medication that constricts pupils, isn’t an effective solution for reversing dilation and can even increase the risk of retinal detachment in nearsighted individuals​. Space Blindness Is a Real Condition: Long-term space travel can cause swelling of the optic nerves and changes in vision due to fluid shifts, leading NASA to study ways to mitigate these effects​. Cataract Surgery Patients Say the Darndest Things: Light sedation during cataract surgery makes patients extra chatty, leading to some hilarious surgery-day stories, including unexpected marriage proposals from patients​. What Causes Ocular Rosacea? This chronic eye condition is linked to facial rosacea, causing redness, irritation, and even corneal inflammation in severe cases​. Amniotic Membrane Transplants Are a Game Changer: Donated placental tissue is being used to heal severe eye injuries and neurotrophic keratopathy, proving that amniotic tissue has powerful regenerative properties​. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! [email protected] Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today’s episode is brought to you by DAX Copilot from Microsoft. DAX Copilot is your AI assistant for automating clinical documentation and workflows helping you be more efficient and reduce the administrative burdens that cause us to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. A friendly reminder from the G’s and Tarsus: If you want to learn more about Demodex Blepharitis, making an appointment with your eye doctor for an eyelid exam can help you know for sure. Visit http://www.EyelidCheck.com for more information.  Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices