A catastrophic injury like a blast lung can occur in explosions, causing life-threatening respiratory failure and long-term complications. Victims may experience shortness of breath, low oxygen levels, or lung collapse, requiring immediate medical intervention. Recognizing the symptoms of a blast lung injury early can mean the difference between survival and irreversible damage.

What Is a Blast Lung Injury?

A blast lung injury (BLI) is a life-threatening condition caused by the intense shock waves from an explosion, leading to severe lung damage and respiratory failure. The rapid pressure changes from the blast can rupture lung tissue, disrupt oxygen absorption, and cause internal bleeding. In many cases, BLI requires immediate medical intervention, including oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation, to prevent long-term complications.

Texas Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards outline safety regulations to minimize the risk of explosion-related injuries in high-risk workplaces. Employers must follow strict protocols for handling explosive materials, implementing proper ventilation systems, and ensuring workers use personal protective equipment (PPE).

How Explosions Cause Blast Lung Injury

Explosions create high-pressure shock waves that rapidly compress and expand air within the lungs, leading to severe tissue damage. The force of the blast can rupture alveoli, the tiny air sacs responsible for oxygen exchange, causing immediate breathing difficulties. Additionally, shock waves may disrupt blood circulation in the lungs, resulting in pulmonary hemorrhaging and life-threatening respiratory distress. A Houston explosion accident attorney may be able to assist you or your injured loved one after a preventable blast.

Early and Delayed Symptoms of Blast Lung Injury

Blast lung injuries can be particularly dangerous because symptoms may not appear immediately, making early detection crucial. Some individuals may walk away from an explosion feeling fine, only to develop severe respiratory distress hours later. Knowing the key warning signs can help you recognize when immediate medical attention is necessary, such as:

• Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing can indicate pulmonary damage or reduced oxygen levels. Some victims may experience rapid, shallow breathing, while others may feel as if they are gasping for air.
• Coughing up blood – Hemoptysis suggests lung hemorrhaging due to ruptured alveoli. Even small amounts of blood in saliva or mucus can signal a severe underlying issue that requires urgent medical care.
• Chest pain – Pressure waves can cause lung bruising and inflammation, leading to significant discomfort. Pain may worsen with deep breaths, coughing, or movement.
• Low oxygen levels – Victims may experience cyanosis (blue-tinted skin) from insufficient oxygenation. A pulse oximeter can help monitor oxygen saturation in suspected cases, but medical evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
• Wheezing or abnormal breath sounds – Damaged lung tissue can lead to a whistling or crackling sound when breathing. This may indicate fluid buildup in the lungs, increasing the risk of pneumonia or secondary infections.
• Dizziness and confusion – A lack of oxygen to the brain can cause cognitive impairment, difficulty concentrating, and fainting. If someone exposed to an explosion begins to show signs of confusion, immediate medical attention is necessary.
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia) – The body may attempt to compensate for low oxygen levels by increasing heart rate. A racing pulse, combined with breathing difficulties, can signal respiratory distress requiring emergency intervention.

Long-Term Effects of Blast Lung Injury

If left untreated, blast lung injuries can lead to chronic lung damage, respiratory failure, and recurrent infections. Scar tissue formation in the lungs may reduce their ability to expand properly, making breathing more difficult over time. Some victims may develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other long-term respiratory conditions requiring ongoing medical care.

Immediate oxygen therapy and ventilatory support are critical for stabilizing patients with severe BLI. In some cases, mechanical ventilation or hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be necessary to prevent long-term complications. Contact The Doan Law Firm today for assistance with your case.