Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Silent Killer That Needs Urgent Attention
By Dr. Apratim Chatterjee – Interventional Neurologist & Stroke Specialist
Imagine you’re having a normal day — and suddenly, you’re hit with the worst headache of your life. Your vision blurs, your neck stiffens, and you start feeling confused. This is not just a migraine or stress. It could be something far more dangerous — a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
As a leading interventional neurologist, Dr. Apratim Chatterjee stresses that subarachnoid hemorrhage is a medical emergency that demands immediate attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can save lives and prevent permanent brain damage.
🧠 What is Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)?
A subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding in the space between the brain and the thin tissues that cover it. This space, known as the subarachnoid space, contains cerebrospinal fluid that cushions the brain.
When a blood vessel ruptures — most commonly due to a brain aneurysm — it causes high-pressure bleeding that can lead to stroke, coma, or death within minutes or hours if untreated.
🚨 Key Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Dr. Chatterjee explains that the symptoms often appear suddenly and severely, and include:
- 🌩️ Thunderclap headache – “Worst headache of my life”
- 🤢 Nausea and vomiting
- 😵 Loss of consciousness or confusion
- 💡 Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- 🧍 Neck stiffness
- 👀 Blurred or double vision
- 💬 Speech or movement difficulty
🆘 If you or someone near you experiences these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Early intervention can be the difference between survival and severe brain injury.
🔍 What Causes Subarachnoid Hemorrhage?
Dr. Apratim Chatterjee highlights several possible causes:
- Ruptured brain aneurysm (most common)
- Head trauma
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use
- Unknown causes (in rare cases)
🧪 Diagnosis: Time is Brain
To confirm SAH, rapid imaging is essential:
- CT Scan: First line of diagnosis — highly effective within the first 24 hours
- Lumbar Puncture: If CT is inconclusive but suspicion remains
- CT Angiography or Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA): To locate and assess the bleeding vessel or aneurysm
🛠️ Treatment: Prompt Action, Precision Techniques
Dr. Chatterjee uses both medical and interventional approaches to treat SAH:
🔧 Endovascular Coiling
A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted through the groin to seal off a ruptured aneurysm with tiny coils. This is a preferred method for many patients.
🔨 Surgical Clipping
An open brain surgery to clamp the aneurysm and prevent further bleeding. Required in some cases depending on location and size.
💊 Supportive ICU Care
Includes:
- Blood pressure control
- Prevention of vasospasm (narrowing of brain vessels)
- Monitoring for hydrocephalus (fluid build-up) or rebleeding
🧘♀️ Recovery: The Road After Survival
Surviving SAH is just the first step. Recovery may involve:
- Physical and cognitive rehabilitation
- Regular neurological follow-up
- Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk of recurrence
“Early diagnosis and fast, expert treatment can save lives. Awareness is the first step toward prevention and better outcomes,” says Dr. Apratim Chatterjee.
👨⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Apratim Chatterjee for Neurological Emergencies?
Dr. Apratim Chatterjee is a highly skilled interventional neurologist and stroke specialist with expertise in advanced neurovascular procedures. From urgent diagnosis to cutting-edge treatment like coiling and thrombectomy, he brings life-saving care to patients facing critical brain conditions like SAH.
📞 Act Fast, Think Smart
Subarachnoid hemorrhage doesn’t wait — and neither should you. If you or someone you know experiences a sudden, severe headache or neurological symptoms, seek emergency help immediately. Your brain — and your life — depends on it.