Blast injuries are complex physical traumas resulting from exposure to explosions, leading to a range of injuries from internal organ damage to sensory impairments. They can be categorized into five types based on the mechanism of injury:
Primary (caused by the blast wave, affecting air-filled organs like lungs and ears),
Secondary (from debris impact),
Tertiary (from being thrown by the blast),
Quaternary (other injuries like burns and asphyxia), and
Quinary (exacerbation of chronic illnesses). Symptoms vary widely, including respiratory distress, abdominal pain, and neurological effects. Diagnosis involves imaging studies and monitoring for complications, while treatment focuses on managing injuries and preventing further trauma.