If lightning strikes a human, the consequences can be severe and varied, often resulting in a range of injuries and potential long-term health issues. Loss of consciousness is very common immediately after a strike. The severity of these effects depends on factors like the strength of the lightning strike, the path it takes through the body, and the immediate medical attention received.
Potential Injuries from Lightning Strikes
Here's a breakdown of common injuries caused by lightning strikes, as indicated by the reference information:
- Cardiac Arrest: Lightning can disrupt the heart's electrical activity, leading to cardiac arrest.
- Burns: Although not always extensive, burns can occur at the entry and exit points of the lightning's path.
- Broken Bones: Muscle contractions caused by the electrical current can be powerful enough to cause fractures.
- Muscle Pains: Intense muscle contractions during the strike can lead to significant muscle pain and soreness.
- Seizures: The electrical discharge can disrupt brain function, causing seizures.
- Confusion: Neurological effects can lead to disorientation and confusion.
- Hearing Loss: The force of the lightning strike can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear.
- Ocular Cataracts: Cataracts can develop over time as a result of the trauma.
- Behavioral Changes: Brain injury can cause long-term behavioral and personality changes.
The following table summarizes the potential impacts:
| Injury | Description |
|---|---|
| Cardiac Arrest | Disruption of the heart's electrical activity |
| Burns | Damage to the skin at entry and exit points |
| Broken Bones | Fractures caused by forceful muscle contractions |
| Muscle Pains | Soreness and pain in muscles due to strong contractions |
| Seizures | Disruption of brain function leading to uncontrolled electrical activity |
| Confusion | Disorientation and cognitive impairment |
| Hearing Loss | Damage to the inner ear |
| Ocular Cataracts | Clouding of the lens of the eye |
| Behavioral Changes | Alterations in personality and behavior due to brain injury |
What to do if someone is struck by lightning:
- Call for Emergency Medical Assistance: The first and most crucial step is to immediately call emergency services.
- Check for Breathing and Pulse: If the person is not breathing or doesn't have a pulse, begin CPR.
- Treat Burns: Provide basic first aid for any burns.
- Monitor the Person: Stay with the person and monitor their condition until medical help arrives.
