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#     Low-Level Blast Exposure  

Low-level blast is the blast generated from firing heavy weapons systems or explosives in combat or training environments. LLB exposure is not the same as concussion or traumatic brain injury. Exposure doesn't typically result in a clinically diagnosable concussion/mild traumatic brain injury.

## Low-level blast exposure may cause:

                - Concentration problems
                - Irritability
                - Memory problems
                - Slowed thinking/slow reaction time
                - Decreased hand-eye coordination
                - Difficulty hearing
                - Headaches
                - Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

## Low-level blast examples:

Military occupations and heavy weapon systems that may expose service members to low-level blast include:
                - Armor, artillery and gunnery
                - Breaching charges
                - Shoulder mounted weapons
                - Explosive ordinance disposal
                - Military instructor training
                - .50 caliber weapons
                - Indirect fire weapons

Research is still emerging on the potential health effects of low-level blast exposure. It's important to recognize the signs and report your symptoms if they persist. Medical providers and service members can learn more about LLB and TBI from TBICoE's fact sheets, short video, and infographic.

## You also may be interested in...

-  All (4) 
-  Fact Sheets (2) 
-  Videos (1) 
-  More »    -  Articles (1) 

Video

### TBI and Low-Level Blast Exposure: What Medical Providers Need to Know

This educational video, produced by the Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, focuses on the effects of low-level blast and traumatic brain injury. Its purpose is to provide supplemental information on low-level blast to health care providers and beneficiaries. 

Warfighter Brain Health Hub
Low-Level Blast Exposure and TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence
Traumatic Brain Injury Resources for Medical Providers
Low-Level Blast Exposure

Fact Sheet

### Low-Level Blast: Fact Sheet for Providers

                    .PDF |                     1.26 MB                

Low-level blast is defined as blast generated from firing heavy weapon systems or explosives in combat or training environments. Exposure to low-level blast does not typically result in a clinically diagnosable concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury.Both providers and service members should be aware of the potential effects of low ...

Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence
Low-Level Blast Exposure and TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury Resources for Medical Providers
TBICoE Research
TBI Educators
Be a Brain Warrior: Protect. Treat. Optimize.
Low-Level Blast Exposure
Warfighter Brain Health Hub

Fact Sheet

### Low-Level Blast: Fact Sheet for Service Members

                    .PDF |                     867.41 KB                

Low-level blast is defined as blast generated from firing heavy weapon systems or explosives in combat or training environments. Exposure to low-level blast does not typically result in a clinically diagnosable concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury.Both providers and service members should be aware of the potential effects of low ...

Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence
Low-Level Blast Exposure and TBI
TBI Resources for Service Members, Patients, Families, and Caregivers
TBI Educators
TBICoE Research
Be a Brain Warrior: Protect. Treat. Optimize.
Low-Level Blast Exposure
Warfighter Brain Health Hub

Article

### Blast Overpressure Research Brings NATO Group to DHHQ

DOD and NATO experts recently met to continue their work on warfighter brain health to protect soldiers from the overblast pressure of their weaponry.

Warfighter Brain Health Hub
Research & Innovation
Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence
Low-Level Blast Exposure

## Related Links

DOD Blast Injury Research Coordinating Office

Low-Level Blast Exposure and TBI

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