Experiencing a sudden, severe headache or unexplained neurological symptoms can be frightening. When those symptoms are caused by a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), the dangers are extremely high. Early recognition and swift treatment are crucial - not only to preserve life but also to reduce the risk of long-term disability. Sadly, we support individuals and families who have suffered because an aneurysm was missed or a subarachnoid haemorrhage diagnosis was delayed. As medical negligence solicitors, we understand how devastating these events are and are experts in subarachnoid haemorrhage claims. This article explains what a subarachnoid haemorrhage is, how it should be managed, why delays can be catastrophic, and how you may be able to make a subarachnoid haemorrhage claim if mistakes in your care have caused avoidable harm. What is a subarachnoid haemorrhage? A subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a life-threatening type of stroke caused by bleeding into the space surrounding the brain. This space, the subarachnoid space, contains cerebrospinal fluid and acts as a protective cushion for the brain. When blood enters this area, pressure on the brain suddenly increases and vital structures can be damaged. In the majority of cases, a subarachnoid haemorrhage happens when a cerebral aneurysm, a weakened bulge in a blood vessel, bursts. Some aneurysms are known about in advance, but many remain undetected until they rupture. A subarachnoid haemorrhage is a medical emergency. Yet because symptoms can overlap with more benign conditions, prompt recognition depends heavily on healthcare professionals maintaining a high level of suspicion. Common SAH symptoms and warning signs The classic symptom of a subarachnoid haemorrhage is a sudden, extremely severe headache, often described by patients as: “The worst headache of my life” “A thunderclap headache” “A sudden blow to the head” Other symptoms can include: Neck stiffness Nausea or vomiting Sensitivity to light Confusion or reduced consciousness Seizures Weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking Crucially, these symptoms often start abruptly. When someone presents to a GP, walk-in centre or Accident & Emergency with a thunderclap headache or neurological changes, a subarachnoid haemorrhage should be immediately considered. Why missed aneurysms and delayed diagnosis are so dangerous If a haemorrhage is missed, or if an aneurysm is detected but not acted upon, patients are exposed to potentially devastating outcomes. 1. Risk of rebleeding Within the first hours and days after a subarachnoid haemorrhage, the risk of rebleeding is extremely high. A second bleed is often more severe and can be fatal. Immediate stabilisation and aneurysm repair significantly reduce this risk. 2. Risk of stroke and vasospasm Blood around the brain can trigger vasospasm, where blood vessels constrict and reduce blood flow. This can lead to delayed strokes - something that might have been prevented with timely management. 3. Permanent neurological damage Delays in treatment may lead to lasting impairments such as: Cognitive difficulties Physical weakness Memory problems Reduced independence Personality changes 4. Avoidable death Tragically, delayed subarachnoid haemorrhage diagnosis remains a known cause of preventable death. Families regularly contact us after losing loved ones who had sought medical help but were not given appropriate investigations or monitoring. How should a subarachnoid haemorrhage be diagnosed? A timely subarachnoid haemorrhage diagnosis typically involves: 1. Clinical assessment A careful history is crucial. Healthcare professionals should always take seriously: a sudden, severe headache headaches described as “thunderclap” neurological symptoms collapse or seizure Any clinician treating such symptoms should follow established SAH guidelines. 2. CT scan A CT brain scan performed promptly after symptom onset is the primary tool for detecting a subarachnoid haemorrhage. When performed within the first six hours, CT scans are usually highly accurate. 3. Lumbar puncture If the CT scan is normal but suspicion remains high, a lumbar puncture should be performed to check for blood in the cerebrospinal fluid. Failing to consider or arrange this test is a common source of negligence claims. 4. CT angiography or MR angiography Once bleeding is confirmed, these scans look for an aneurysm so that treatment can begin without delay. Failures in this diagnostic pathway, such as not requesting the correct scan, misinterpreting results or assuming symptoms are due to migraine - can have life-changing consequences. Management of subarachnoid haemorrhage The management of subarachnoid haemorrhage requires urgent, specialist neurovascular care. Treatment may include: 1. Stabilisation Blood pressure control Pain relief Monitoring in a high-dependency or intensive care setting 2. Securing the aneurysm Two main procedures are used: Endovascular coiling – inserting tiny coils to seal the aneurysm from the inside Surgical clipping – placing a clip at the base of the aneurysm to prevent further bleeding Choosing the right approach depends on the aneurysm’s location and the patient’s condition. 3. Preventing complications Patients should be closely monitored for: vasospasm hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid around the brain) rebleeding seizures Early, expert intervention improves survival and neurological outcomes. Delays deprive patients of the chance of a better recovery. When delayed diagnosis may amount to negligence Not every poor outcome is the result of negligence. However, you may be able to consider a subarachnoid haemorrhage claim if: A clinician failed to recognise symptoms that should have raised suspicion No CT scan or lumbar puncture was arranged when it should have been Scan results were misinterpreted You were discharged without appropriate safety-netting advice An aneurysm seen on imaging was not followed up or treated Delays in transfer or treatment worsened your outcome Every case is unique, and it is natural to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what happened. How a subarachnoid haemorrhage claim can help A successful claim can help you secure: Financial support for rehabilitation and future care Compensation for pain, suffering and loss of quality of life Funds to enable you to make necessary adaptations to your home Pursuing a claim can also help individuals and families feel heard after a traumatic experience and to find answers to concerns they have about the care provided. We are here to support you We understand the fear and uncertainty that come with a missed aneurysm or delayed subarachnoid haemorrhage diagnosis. Whether you are recovering from your injuries or coping with the loss of a loved one, taking legal action may feel daunting. Our team of specialist clinical negligence solicitors is here to support you with compassion, clarity and expertise. We will ensure that every aspect of your case is dealt with sensitively and expertly. If you believe errors were made in your care, or you simply want to understand whether you have grounds for a subarachnoid haemorrhage claim, please contact our experienced medical negligence solicitors. We will listen to your story with kindness, explain your options and guide you through the process every step of the way. Contact us by email at mednegclaims@boyesturner.com.
