Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Question 1

Other than a thunderclap headache, what are other symptoms of subarachnoid haemorrhage? (4)

Answer 1

Neck stiffness

Photophobia

Visions changes

Neurological symptoms

Question 2

What are the risk factors for subarachnoid haemorrhage? (5)

Answer 2

Hypertension

Smoking

Alcohol

Cocaine

Family history

Question 3

Who is subarachnoid haemorrhage more common in? (3)

Answer 3

Black

Female

Age 40’s to 60’s

Question 4

First line investigation for subarachnoid haemorrhage

Answer 4

CT head

Question 5

If CT head is negative in patient suspected of having a subarachnoid haemorrhage, what is the second line investigation and what will the results show?

Answer 5

Lumbar puncture

Raised red cell count

CSF will be yellow from bilirubin

Question 6

Once a subarachnoid haemorrhage is confirmed on a CT, what secondary imaging can be done to visualise the source of the bleed?

Answer 6

CT/MRI angiogram

Question 7

What is the supportive medications that can be given in a subarachnoid haemorrhage? (2)

Answer 7

Nimodipine (CCB) used to prevent vasospasm

Antiseptics for seizures