A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a life-threatening, sudden bleeding into the space surrounding the brain, most commonly caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. It presents with a "thunderclap" (worst-ever) headache, neck stiffness, nausea, and vomiting. Immediate medical attention (CT scan/angiography) is critical to secure the bleeding vessel, as it carries a high mortality rate.
Common Causes
Ruptured Aneurysm: The most common cause (approx. 85% of spontaneous cases), where a weak, bulging spot on a brain artery bursts.
Head Injury: Trauma, such as from a fall or car accident.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): An abnormal tangle of blood vessels.
Other: Blood thinners, bleeding disorders, or vasculitis.
Symptoms
Sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap headache" or "worst headache of life"
.
Neck stiffness and pain.
Nausea and vomiting.
Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Loss of consciousness or fainting.
Seizures.
Prognosis and Long-Term Effects
SAH is serious, with a roughly 45% risk of death within 30 days. Survivors may face long-term effects including cognitive issues (memory, concentration), fatigue, speech difficulties, and personality changes.
Risk Factors
High blood pressure (hypertension).
Smoking.
Family history of brain aneurysms.
Age (usually over 40).
Treatment
Treatment focuses on securing the bleeding source via neurosurgical clipping or endovascular coiling, controlling blood pressure, and managing complications like vasospasm.
Common Causes
Ruptured Aneurysm: The most common cause (approx. 85% of spontaneous cases), where a weak, bulging spot on a brain artery bursts.
Head Injury: Trauma, such as from a fall or car accident.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): An abnormal tangle of blood vessels.
Other: Blood thinners, bleeding disorders, or vasculitis.
Symptoms
Sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap headache" or "worst headache of life"
. Neck stiffness and pain.
Nausea and vomiting.
Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Loss of consciousness or fainting.
Seizures.
Prognosis and Long-Term Effects
SAH is serious, with a roughly 45% risk of death within 30 days. Survivors may face long-term effects including cognitive issues (memory, concentration), fatigue, speech difficulties, and personality changes.
Risk Factors
High blood pressure (hypertension).
Smoking.
Family history of brain aneurysms.
Age (usually over 40).
Treatment
Treatment focuses on securing the bleeding source via neurosurgical clipping or endovascular coiling, controlling blood pressure, and managing complications like vasospasm.
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