Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Overview

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding into the subarachnoid space after rupture of a cerebral blood vessel, an acute hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease. It most often presents with sudden severe headache, vomiting, and neck stiffness, commonly from a ruptured aneurysm.

Symptoms

• Sudden severe headache
• Neck stiffness
• Vomiting
• Photophobia
• Impaired consciousness

Treatment

Enforce strict bed rest, control blood pressure and prevent cerebral vasospasm, and treat aneurysms with endovascular coiling or surgical clipping.

Dietary advice

Eat a bland, easily digestible diet, drink plenty of water to keep bowel movements regular, and avoid spicy foods.