What Is Ballistic Trauma?
• Physical injury caused by a projectile weapon like a bullet
• Often results in penetrating wounds, fractures, or organ damage
• Severity depends on weapon type, bullet speed, and entry location
What Causes It?
• Gunshot wounds from handguns, rifles, or shotguns
• Explosive fragments from military or industrial accidents
• Accidental discharge of firearms
• Intentional violence or self-inflicted injury
What Are the Symptoms?
• Visible bullet entry and possibly exit wounds
• Heavy bleeding
• Severe pain at the injury site
• Swelling or bruising
• Numbness or paralysis if nerves are affected
• Shortness of breath if the chest is involved
• Loss of consciousness in head or spine injuries
How Is It Diagnosed?
• Physical examination of the wound
• X-rays or CT scans to locate the projectile and assess damage
• Ultrasound (FAST exam) for internal bleeding
• Blood tests to check for organ function and blood loss
• Surgery may be needed to explore internal injuries
What Is the Treatment?
• Immediate emergency medical care
• Stopping bleeding with pressure, packing, or surgery
• Blood transfusions if major blood loss occurred
• Surgery to remove the bullet and repair organs or vessels
• Antibiotics to prevent infection
• Pain management and rehabilitation after stabilization
What Are the Risk Factors?
• Presence in conflict zones or areas with high gun violence
• Improper handling or storage of firearms
• Occupational exposure (military, law enforcement, hunting)
• Lack of protective body armor
How to Prevent It?
• Practice firearm safety at all times
• Store guns locked and unloaded, out of reach of children
• Wear protective gear if working in high-risk environments
• Advocate for conflict de-escalation and community safety
• Attend firearm training and education programs
When to Seek Medical Help?
• Any gunshot wound, regardless of severity
• Profuse or uncontrolled bleeding
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Loss of consciousness or shock symptoms
• Numbness or inability to move body parts