What complication is associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)?

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious condition that arises from bleeding in the subarachnoid space, typically due to the rupture of an aneurysm or vascular malformation. One major complication that can occur following SAH is cerebral vasospasm. This phenomenon is characterized by a narrowing of the cerebral blood vessels, which can lead to ischemia and subsequent neurological deficits.

Cerebral vasospasm typically occurs a few days after the initial bleeding incident and can significantly increase morbidity and mortality for patients recovering from SAH. The pathophysiology is not completely understood, but it is believed to be related to the presence of blood in the cerebrospinal fluid, which can irritate the vascular smooth muscle and lead to prolonged vasoconstriction.

Recognizing cerebral vasospasm is crucial because timely intervention, often through medical management like calcium channel blockers or invasive procedures in severe cases, can help prevent further neurological deterioration. Therefore, the association of cerebral vasospasm as a complication of SAH is well-known in clinical practice and underscores the importance of monitoring patients who have suffered from this condition for signs of vascular complications.