SAH Flashcards
1
Q
What is a SAH?
A
Subarachnoid haemorrhage - bleeding in the sub arachnoid space
2
Q
What are the early effects of a SAH?
A
Mechanical effect
Acute global ischaemia
3
Q
What are the later effects of SAH?
A
Early brain injury
- microthrombi
- cerebral oedema
Cellular changes
- oxidative stress
- platelet activation
Systemic complications
- inflammatory response
4
Q
What are the risk factors for a SAH?
A
Trauma Hypertension Smoking Cocaine use Excess alcohl FHx
5
Q
What is the presentation of a SAH?
A
Thunderclap headache
Loss of consciousness
Confusion
Dizziness
6
Q
What are investigations for a suspected SAH?
A
CT head
Lumbar puncture - rule out meningitis
7
Q
How is a SAH managed?
A
Neurosurgical referral - decompression surgery
Neuro obs
IV fluids
Nimodipine
8
Q
What are complications of SAH?
A
Death - 50%
Re-bleed
Cerebral ischaemia
Hydrocephalus
