Symptoms of a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

A subarachnoid haemorrhage is a form of a brain bleed that occurs spontaneously in a space around the brain called the subarachnoid space. Classically, patients complain of a sudden onset headache that they described like being whacked on the head. In addition, patients may experience vomiting, confusion and altered levels of consciousness. It is caused due to the rupture of a small dilatation in the blood vessels in the brain called an aneurysm. These are located at an area called the circle of Willis. It requires urgent diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis is made with a CT scan of the brain and a lumbar puncture. Prompt surgery is required to treat the condition, along with lowering of blood pressure around the brain. Coils may be inserted in the culprit vessel to support it and prevent it from re-bleed. Mortality is high if left untreated.

Vivek Baliga is a cardiovascular healthcare professional and has a keen interest in medical education.