Y36.5: War operations involving nuclear weapons

War operations involving nuclear weapons, classified under ICD-10 code Y36.5, describe medical conditions caused directly by nuclear warfare. They encompass a wide array of health issues including acute radiation sickness, thermal burns, blast injuries, and long-term effects such as cancer due to radiation exposure. Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS), also known as radiation sickness, typically manifests among those exposed to a large dose of radiation over a short time period. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite before progressing to potentially serious issues like decreased blood cell production, neurological abnormalities, and death. Thermal burns occur due to the intense heat emitted by a nuclear blast, while the blast's force may also cause traumatic injuries. Long-term, radiation exposure can lead to a heightened risk of developing various types of cancer. The severity and onset of these conditions can vary widely depending on exposure distance, amount, and duration.