Where is subarachnoid hemorrhage located

This bleeding can sometimes cut through the brain tissue and leak into the area outside the brain called the subarachnoid space. This is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage and can be life threatening. The blood from the hemorrhage can compress or displace vital brain tissue. A severe hemorrhage can cause a coma, or leave you paralyzed. Severe headache — the worst headache pain you've ever had that feels different from other headaches.

The symptoms of a subarachnoid hemorrhage may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. A brain aneurysm which can lead to a subarachnoid hemorrhage can cause these symptoms:.

If you have symptoms of a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a doctor might use several tests to diagnose it:. MRI scan. This test uses large magnets, radiofrequency energy, and a computer to make detailed images of the brain.

CT scan. This test uses X-rays and computer technology to make horizontal, or axial images often called slices of the brain. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays. During this test, dye is injected in the blood vessel and then X-rays are taken to evaluate blood flow through them.

Spinal tap. In this test, a special needle is placed into the lower back, into the spinal canal. The pressure in the spinal canal and brain can be measured. A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid can be removed and analyzed for the presence of blood. A diagnosis of a cerebral aneurysm isn't usually made until a subarachnoid hemorrhage has already occurred. A subarachnoid hemorrhage is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment is essential to help reduce the risk for permanent brain damage.

The abnormal formation is very weak and prone to bleeding. Trauma - any severe blow to the head may rupture blood vessels within the brain. Complications of subarachnoid haemorrhage Complications can occur before or after medical treatment, and can include: Rebleed - until the damaged vessel is repaired, there is a risk of re-bleeding. This commonly occurs hours after the first bleed and, if left untreated, carries an increased risk of further complications including death.

The risk is highest in the first two weeks post initial bleed without medical intervention. Communicating hydrocephalus - hydrocephalus is the abnormal enlargement of the brain cavities ventricles caused by a build up of cerebrospinal fluid CSF. The arachnoid villi, which are responsible for CSF reabsorption, can become blocked with blood from the initial bleed, associated surgery or further complications.

If the reabsorption of CSF is blocked, communicating hydrocephalus will occur. Cerebral oedema - a common side effect from any traumatic event involving brain tissue is cerebral oedema, or swelling of the brain. This is caused by lack of oxygen to brain tissue. Seizures - these occur when abnormal signals are sent from the damaged brain cells. These abnormal signals trigger temporary changes in sensation, behaviour, movement and consciousness.

It is regarded as epilepsy if the patient has three or more seizures. Cerebral vasospasm - this is the most significant cause of morbidity complications and mortality death in patients surviving subarachnoid haemorrhage. Unidentified substances released after a subarachnoid haemorrhage can cause the blood vessels of the brain to spasm.

This changes the structure of the vessel walls and, ultimately, decreases blood supply to parts of the brain. Cerebral vasospasm can happen between one and 28 days after the initial bleed, with the incidence peaking between days seven and Diagnosis of subarachnoid haemorrhage The tests used to diagnose subarachnoid haemorrhage can include: CT scan - identifies the extent of the subarachnoid haemorrhage and can sometimes pinpoint the location of the bleed.

A CT scan can identify complications of a subarachnoid haemorrhage, such as communicating hydrocephalus. Lumbar puncture - CSF is removed using a needle and examined for the presence of blood. This is the most commonly used radiological procedure to locate the cause of an aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. MRI scan - this non-invasive scan uses strong magnetic fields to visualise brain blood vessels and their associated abnormalities.

Treatment for subarachnoid haemorrhage Treatment can include: Surgery - surgery can only be used if the cause of the subarachnoid haemorrhage is clear, such as an aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation.

Conservative treatment - neurosurgery is not an option if there is no definable cause, however drainage of the blood from the subarachnoid space is usually performed. Then careful observation is carried out for a specified period of time to ensure there is no further damage to the brain. This course of action may also be taken if the haemorrhage is too large or too risky to operate on. Surgical techniques Surgical techniques include: Clipping - the neurosurgeon cuts a hole into the skull to access the brain.

Early detection and, in some cases, treatment of a brain aneurysm can prevent a subsequent hemorrhage in the subarachnoid space. SAH is a serious condition that can frequently be fatal. An aneurysm in the brain is a weak area in an artery in the brain that bulges out and fills with blood.

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