A subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a rare but extremely serious type of stroke that requires urgent medical diagnosis and treatment. It occurs when bleeding develops in the space surrounding the brain, most commonly following the rupture of a brain aneurysm.
Because a subarachnoid haemorrhage can deteriorate rapidly, delays in diagnosis or treatment can have devastating consequences. In some cases, failures by medical professionals to recognise symptoms, carry out appropriate tests, or provide timely treatment may amount to medical negligence.
If you or a loved one has suffered harm following a delayed diagnosis or mismanagement of a subarachnoid haemorrhage, you may be entitled to pursue a clinical negligence claim.
What Is a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage?
A subarachnoid haemorrhage is a form of stroke caused by bleeding into the space between the brain and the tissues that cover it. This bleeding places pressure on the brain and can interrupt the normal supply of oxygen.
Most cases are caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, although SAH can also occur as a result of severe head trauma.
Subarachnoid haemorrhages are medical emergencies. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce the risk of serious brain injury or death.
Common Symptoms of a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
Symptoms of SAH often develop suddenly and can worsen quickly. One of the most recognised warning signs is a sudden and extremely severe headache, often described by patients as a “thunderclap headache.”
Other symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Because these symptoms may initially resemble other conditions such as migraines, prompt medical investigation is essential to rule out a potentially life-threatening haemorrhage.
The Long-Term Impact of a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
A subarachnoid haemorrhage can lead to serious complications and long-term disability. In some cases, the condition is fatal.
For survivors, the impact may include:
- Neurological impairment
- Weakness or mobility problems
- Speech and communication difficulties
- Memory and cognitive issues
- Severe fatigue
- Emotional or behavioural changes
Some individuals require ongoing rehabilitation, home adaptations, or long-term care to support their daily lives.
When Delayed Diagnosis or Misdiagnosis May Amount to Medical Negligence
Medical professionals are expected to recognise the warning signs of a potential subarachnoid haemorrhage and arrange appropriate investigations without delay.
However, mistakes can occur. Examples of medical negligence relating to SAH may include the following.
Failure to Diagnose a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
Patients presenting with symptoms such as a sudden severe headache should be properly assessed. If healthcare professionals fail to recognise the possibility of a subarachnoid haemorrhage, they may not arrange the necessary diagnostic tests.
Diagnosis typically requires urgent imaging, such as a CT scan, and sometimes a lumbar puncture if the scan is inconclusive.
Misdiagnosis of Symptoms
Symptoms of SAH may sometimes be incorrectly attributed to less serious conditions such as migraines or tension headaches. If a healthcare professional fails to take a thorough medical history or does not consider SAH as a possible diagnosis, this can result in dangerous delays in treatment.
Delays in Treatment
Once diagnosed, a subarachnoid haemorrhage requires urgent medical management. This may include neurosurgery to repair a ruptured aneurysm or medication to control blood pressure and prevent further bleeding.
Delays in treatment can increase the risk of permanent brain injury.
Failure to Monitor for Complications
Patients who have suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage must be carefully monitored for complications such as:
- Re-bleeding
- Vasospasm
- Hydrocephalus
If these complications are not recognised or treated promptly, a patient’s condition may deteriorate significantly.
Proving a Subarachnoid Haemorrhage Medical Negligence Claim
To succeed in a medical negligence claim, it must be shown that:
- The treatment provided fell below an acceptable standard of care, and
- This failure caused harm that could otherwise have been avoided.
In SAH cases, earlier diagnosis or treatment may prevent complications such as permanent neurological damage, stroke caused by vasospasm, or fatal re-bleeding.
Clinical negligence claims usually rely on independent medical experts who review medical records and provide specialist evidence on whether the outcome could have been improved with appropriate care.
How Our Medical Negligence Solicitors Can Help
If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to the delayed diagnosis or mismanagement of a subarachnoid haemorrhage, our specialist medical negligence solicitors may be able to help.
We have experience investigating complex neurological and stroke-related negligence claims and understand the devastating impact these cases can have on patients and families. Our team can review your circumstances, obtain expert medical evidence, and advise you on whether you may have a claim for compensation.
To speak with our team in confidence, call 01244 354688 for a no-obligation discussion about your situation.
