Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), also known as non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, is a medical condition characterized by bleeding in the subarachnoid space of the brain, which is the area between the arachnoid and pia mater membranes. Subarachnoid hemorrhage typically occurs spontaneously without any known external cause or trauma, unlike traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is caused by a head injury.
The subarachnoid space contains cerebrospinal fluid and is located directly over the brain's surface. When a blood vessel in this space ruptures, blood leaks into the subarachnoid space, leading to bleeding around the brain. The most common cause of spontaneous SAH is the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm, which is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain. Other potential causes include arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), blood clotting disorders, and certain medications.
Spontaneous SAH is a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention due to its potential life-threatening consequences. Symptoms commonly associated with SAH include sudden and severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scan and lumbar puncture to examine the cerebrospinal fluid.
Treatment for spontaneous SAH aims to stop the bleeding, prevent rebleeding, manage complications, and reduce the risk of future hemorrhages. Immediate interventions may include medical management to control blood pressure and other factors, surgical clipping or endovascular coiling of the ruptured aneurysm, and supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications
