This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.
Overview
Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering it, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
Symptoms
Sudden, severe headache (“worst headache of my life”) Nausea and vomiting Neck stiffness Loss of consciousness or fainting Seizures or neurological deficits
Causes
Ruptured brain aneurysm Head injury or trauma Blood vessel malformations High blood pressure or anticoagulant use
Diagnosis
CT scan of the head Lumbar puncture if CT is inconclusive Cerebral angiography to locate source of bleeding Neurological assessment
Treatment
Immediate hospitalization and stabilization Surgical clipping or endovascular coiling of aneurysm Medications to control blood pressure and prevent complications Rehabilitation after recovery