Brain and Spine Care
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What is a subarachnoid hemorrhage?
A subarachnoid hemorrhage is a type of bleeding that happens on the surface of the brain, in the space between the brain and its protective covering. This condition is most often caused by a burst blood vessel, known as an aneurysm.
The bleeding can quickly increase pressure inside the skull, which may damage brain tissue. It is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate care.
What causes it?
The most common cause is a ruptured brain aneurysm, which is a weak spot in a blood vessel wall. Over time, this area can balloon and eventually break open.
Risk factors may include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Family history of aneurysms
- Age over 40
- Certain medical conditions affecting blood vessels
Symptoms
Symptoms usually come on suddenly and can be severe. Recognizing them early can be lifesaving.
Common symptoms include:
- A sudden, intense headache (often described as the worst headache ever experienced)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Neck stiffness
- Blurred or double vision
- Trouble speaking or understanding others
- Confusion or difficulty focusing
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
How is it diagnosed?
A subarachnoid hemorrhage is diagnosed quickly using imaging and other tests to confirm bleeding and find its source.
Your provider may use:
- CT scan
- MRI
- Angiography
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
Prompt diagnosis is critical to guide treatment and reduce complications.
How is it treated?
Treatment begins immediately in a hospital setting to stabilize your condition and stop the bleeding.
Treatments may include:
- Monitoring and controlling blood pressure
- Medications to prevent complications
- Surgical clipping for the affected blood vessel
- Endovascular coiling to block the aneurysm from inside the vessel
- Supportive care in an intensive care unit
Recovery depends on how quickly treatment begins and how severe the bleeding is. Some people recover fully, while others may experience long-term effects such as memory problems, weakness, or difficulty speaking.
