What is a common consequence of primary blast injuries to air-filled organs?

Primary blast injuries are caused by the shock wave generated from an explosion, which exerts immense pressure on the body. Air-filled organs such as the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and the middle ear are particularly vulnerable to this kind of injury because they can experience differential pressures between the inside of the organ and the surrounding environment due to the blast wave.

When considering the effects on the brain, concussions can occur from blast injuries even if there are no visible signs of trauma on the skull or face. This is a common consequence because the sudden change in atmospheric pressure can cause brain tissue to move relative to the skull, resulting in a concussion. Such injuries may not always manifest physical signs, which is why they can be challenging to diagnose immediately after the event.

Understanding this aspect of blast injuries helps in recognizing the importance of monitoring for subtle neurological symptoms in patients who have been exposed to explosive blasts, as these symptoms may not present with the more obvious physical manifestations commonly associated with head injuries. Recognizing this can guide further assessment and management in a tactical medical setting.