Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Overview

A subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a serious type of stroke caused by bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin tissues that cover it. This space, known as the subarachnoid space, surrounds the brain and spinal cord and is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. A sudden bleed in this area can be life-threatening and may result in long-term neurological complications.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide consultant-led inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults recovering from subarachnoid haemorrhage. Our goal is to support cognitive, physical, and emotional recovery to help individuals regain independence and quality of life.

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What Causes a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage?

The most common causes of SAH include:

• Ruptured brain aneurysm (most common)
• Arteriovenous malformation (AVM)
• Head trauma
• Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use
• Spontaneous (non-aneurysmal) haemorrhage

The onset is typically sudden and severe, often described as a “thunderclap” headache. Emergency treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding and managing complications such as vasospasm, hydrocephalus, or re-bleeding.

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Symptoms of Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Initial symptoms can include:

• Sudden, severe headache (often the “worst headache ever”)
• Neck stiffness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Confusion or loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Blurred or double vision

Following stabilisation, individuals may experience long-term effects depending on the severity and location of the bleed.

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Long-Term Effects of SAH

Survivors of subarachnoid haemorrhage may face a range of challenges, including:

Cognitive Impairment

• Short-term memory loss
• Reduced attention and concentration
• Slower thinking or difficulty processing information

Physical Impairments

• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Fatigue or reduced stamina
• Balance and coordination difficulties
• Headaches and dizziness

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms

• Anxiety or depression
• Emotional lability or irritability
• Personality or behavioural changes

Some individuals may also develop hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), post-stroke epilepsy, or experience reduced ability to return to work or daily activities.

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Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually made in hospital with:

• CT brain scan to identify bleeding
• Lumbar puncture (if scan is inconclusive)
• Cerebral angiogram to locate aneurysms or AVMs
• Neurological examination and ongoing observation

Once medically stable, many patients benefit from structured inpatient rehabilitation.

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Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

We specialise in comprehensive, inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults following subarachnoid haemorrhage. Our multidisciplinary team delivers integrated care tailored to individual recovery needs.

Our services include:

Physiotherapy

• Strength and mobility recovery
• Balance and gait re-training
• Fatigue management
• Falls prevention strategies

Occupational Therapy

• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Support with daily living activities
• Environmental adaptations
• Return-to-work or meaningful activity planning

Neuropsychology

• Support for anxiety, depression and behavioural change
• Cognitive assessments and therapy
• Family education and coping support

Speech and Language Therapy

• Communication rehabilitation
• Cognitive-communication strategies
• Swallowing assessments and therapy (if needed)

Specialist Nursing

• 24-hour care and medication management
• Neurological monitoring
• Seizure and symptom management

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Who We Help

We support adults (18+) who:

• Are recovering from aneurysmal or non-traumatic SAH
• Require rehabilitation for physical, cognitive or behavioural impairments
• Are medically stable but need support regaining independence
• May have complex neurological symptoms requiring multidisciplinary input

To speak with our team, call 01296 678800 or enquire online.

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Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• Dedicated inpatient neurorehabilitation centre
• Multidisciplinary care delivered up to 7 days a week
• Consultant oversight and neuropsychology-led support
• Private, quiet environment tailored for brain injury recovery
• Proven expertise in complex stroke and brain haemorrhage rehab