

Firing A Weapon Might Hurt Your Brain
7 snips Aug 16, 2024
The podcast dives into the surprising dangers faced by military personnel from firing powerful weapons. It reveals how invisible blast waves can damage brain health, even in training scenarios. Personal stories illustrate the long-term effects of repeated exposure to these blasts. The discussion also highlights military advancements aimed at protecting service members, while addressing the crucial balance between combat readiness and safety training. This eye-opening exploration sheds light on the often-overlooked neurological impacts of explosive weaponry.
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Marine's Brain Damage
- William Wilcox, a former Marine tow gunner, fired heavy weapons extensively in the 1990s.
- He now suffers from brain damage and suspects a connection to his military service.
Blast Wave Injuries
- During the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the military observed brain injuries in personnel exposed to explosions.
- Even without physical injuries, symptoms like headaches, nausea, and memory problems arose, resembling concussions.
Blast Wave's Impact
- Kit Parker, a biophysics professor, likens a blast wave's impact on the brain to thumping Jell-O.
- The brain slams against the skull, potentially dislocating neurons and disrupting neural connections.