The Position of Eardrum Rupture and Hearing Loss in the Scale of Injuries from Nuclear Blast,
Abstract
The scanty data available on human eardrum rupture from blast pressure suggest a normal distribution of rupture about a median overpressure of 15 psi. More abundant data are available on blast-induced eardrum rupture in animals, but their value is limited because of the lack of scaling laws. Consequently, predictions for human injury stem from clinical experiences. As an injury mode to shipboard personnel, eardrum rupture will be of secondary importance to other blast-induced injuries. In fact, rupture itself may be beneficial to the individual by preventing damage to the middle ear. However, hearing loss associated with blast pressure or rupture itself will compromise normal voice communication. Although ear protection is advisable, it should be made available only in conjunction with protection against other blast effects. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0737643
Entities
People
- Joseph Gesswein
- Paul Corrao