Study Shows Link Between Combat Explosions and Neurological Conditions

On September 17th, 2026, U.S. News highlighted a new study on the link between combat explosions and neurological conditions for veterans. Although this probably comes as no surprise to those who have seen combat, a major explosion is likely to cause brain disorders, strokes, seizures, and nerve pain. If you are struggling with any of these issues, a VA disability benefits lawyer in Washington may be able to help you access the treatment you need.

Blast Exposure Linked to “Whole-Body Problems”

The study, published in a September edition of Neurology, concludes that blast exposure affects the entire body, including the brain, the lungs, the heart, and even metabolism. Researchers categorized “explosions” in relatively broad terms, including incoming artillery strikes, drone strikes, missile strikes, rocket-propelled grenades, mortars, and landmines.

Also included were outgoing explosions, including the blast or heavy recoil a soldier experiences when firing artillery, shoulder-mounted weapons, and door-breaching explosive devices. In other words, a soldier could potentially experience a blast-related neurological condition even if they had never seen active combat with an opposing force. These blasts could happen during training exercises or accidents outside of actual combat.

Regardless of the circumstances of these explosions, the study found that they were associated with an almost 80 percent higher risk of seizures. Soldiers who experienced blast exposure also showed an almost 40 percent higher chance of developing nerve pain and a 35 percent higher chance of having a stroke.

While ordinary veterans may not be shocked at these statistics, the connection between blasts and other health problems is much more surprising. The study found a strong correlation between high-level blasts and seemingly unrelated health conditions, such as diabetes and hepatitis (both B and C). Soldiers who experienced explosions also showed a tendency to struggle with higher cholesterol levels, bronchitis, emphysema, and various heart conditions.

Researchers did not attempt to explain why blast exposure led to these health conditions, but one might hazard a few guesses: If explosions cause nerve pain and brain disorders, it seems only logical that these veterans would attempt to self-medicate. The bronchitis may be related to smoking, while diabetes and higher cholesterol could be caused by unhealthy dietary choices. Hepatitis B and C could be related to riskier behaviors, such as drug use or casual sex. Of course, this is pure speculation.

Treatment Options for Veterans Struggling With Blast Exposure

Various treatment options exist, although it always makes sense to personalize your treatment based on your unique circumstances instead of relying on broad advice found online. Sometimes, medications can help reduce seizures, nerve pain, and sleep problems. Veterans may also want to undergo accurate neurological assessments to diagnose their disorders before moving forward with treatment. Often, simple lifestyle choices like better exercise and sleep can help veterans achieve real results.

Can a VA Disability Lawyer in Washington Help Me? 

A VA disability lawyer in Washington may be able to help if your exposure to combat explosions has led to strokes, brain disorders, and neurological conditions. Unfortunately, many veterans must prove that their conditions are service-related to receive benefits, even if this connection seems somewhat obvious. Gustad Law Group, PLLC serves veterans in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma.

Source:

 usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2026-09-17/combat-blasts-tied-to-higher-risk-of-brain-disorders-in-veterans