Blast Injuries

"Blast Wave" (primary) refers to the intense over-pressurization impulse created by a detonated HE.

Blast injuries are characterized by anatomical and physiological changes from the direct or reflective over-pressurization force impacting the body's surface. The HE "blast wave" (over-pressure component) should be distinguished from "blast wind" (forced super-heated air flow), which may be encountered with both HE and LE.

Up to 10% of all blast survivors have significant eye injuries. These injuries involve perforations from high-velocity projectiles, can occur with minimal initial discomfort, and present for care days, weeks, or months after the event. Symptoms include eye pain or irritation, foreign body sensation, altered vision, per orbital swelling or contusions.

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