Post-EVA Lunar Cardiac Arrhythmia
Earth designation: Post-EVA Arrhythmia
Post-EVA presentation of Arrhythmia in lunar residents. Abnormal heart rhythms arising from electrolyte imbalance, radiation effects on cardiac conducting tissue, dehydration, stimulant use, or underlying cardiac deconditioning. Heavy particle radiation from galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events can cause transient ion channel disruption.
Lunar Risk Factors
Cosmic radiation affecting cardiac ion channels. Electrolyte imbalances from dehydration and lunar diet. Cardiovascular deconditioning. Stimulant medication use for shift work. Stress and sleep deprivation.
Symptoms
Palpitations, irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, presyncope, chest pain, dyspnea.
Lunar Presentation
During solar particle events, multiple residents may report palpitations simultaneously — distinguish radiation-induced from individual pathology. Wearable cardiac monitors detect arrhythmias early.
Diagnosis
12-lead ECG, continuous Holter monitoring, electrolytes, thyroid function.
Treatment
Correct underlying cause, anti-arrhythmic medication, cardioversion if unstable.
Lunar Medical Bay Protocol
Electrolyte repletion (magnesium, potassium). Identify precipitant. For SVT: vagal maneuvers then adenosine (stock in crash kit). For AF: rate control with metoprolol, anticoagulation. For VT/VF: defibrillation — AED mandatory in all habitats. Telemedicine cardiology consult for new or persistent arrhythmia.
Evacuation Criteria
Ventricular fibrillation post-resuscitation. New sustained ventricular tachycardia. Third-degree heart block. Arrhythmia causing hemodynamic instability.
Prevention
Electrolyte monitoring, hydration, radiation monitoring during SPE, wearable cardiac monitoring for high-risk residents.