Lung Injury

"Blast Lung" is a direct consequence of the HE over-pressurization wave. It is the most common fatal primary blast injury among initial survivors. Signs of blast lung are usually present at the time of initial evaluation, but they have been reported as late as 48 hours after the explosion.

Blast lung is characterized by temporary cessation of respiration, slow heart rate, and low blood pressure. Pulmonary injuries vary from slight damage to severe hemorrhages.

Blast lung should be suspected for anyone with shortage of breath, cough, bloody expectorations, or chest pain following blast exposure.

Blast lung produces a characteristic "butterfly" pattern on chest X-ray. A chest X-ray is recommended for all exposed persons.

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