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 blast overpressure exposure—including LLB—and TBI from TBICoE's fact sheets, short video, and infographic.
You also may be interested in...
Video
Oct 15, 2024
Can blast exposure impact the brain? TBICoE's Branch Chief, Dr. Katie Stout, explains. While some service members may experience blast exposure without an immediate diagnosable injury, there may still be effects on the brain. TBICoE is advancing blast exposure research to help assess risk and protect service members. To learn more, visit health.mil ...
Video
Sep 30, 2024
Regulations now require hearing protector fit testing for all at-risk perpersonelonal. Watch to learn why.
Article
Apr 26, 2024
Red Arrow soldiers from the 1-120th Field Artillery Battalion and 1-105th Cavalry Squadron were visited by a team of civilian researchers and Wisconsin National Guard surgeons on April 9, 2024, during their training at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to discuss a study to measure blast exposure and evaluate associated effects among soldiers during routine ...
Video
Sep 21, 2023
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.
Article
Dec 13, 2022
DOD and NATO experts recently met to continue their work on warfighter brain health to protect soldiers from the overblast pressure of their weaponry.
You are leaving Health.mil
The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense of non-U.S. Government sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. Although the Defense Health Agency may or may not use these sites as additional distribution channels for Department of Defense information, it does not exercise editorial control over all of the information that you may find at these locations. Such links are provided consistent with the stated purpose of this website.
You are leaving Health.mil
View the external links disclaimer.
Last Updated: September 24, 2025