Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding that occurs between the layers covering the brain, in the space that normally contains cerebrospinal fluid. It is considered a serious neurological situation that requires immediate medical attention.

Common symptoms: it usually presents with a very intense, sudden-onset headache, sometimes accompanied by neck stiffness, nausea, light sensitivity, or altered level of consciousness.

Common causes: associated factors include the rupture of brain aneurysms and head trauma, as well as some blood vessel abnormalities.

Which specialist handles it? Evaluation and management usually fall to the neurosurgeon, with support from the vascular surgeon when the vessels are involved. In the event of an explosive headache or sudden neurological symptoms, the most prudent course is to seek urgent care without delay.