brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)
Diagnosis of SAH
Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging Angiography If people have a sudden, severe headache that peaks within seconds or that is accompanied by loss of consciousness, confusion, or any symptoms suggesting a stroke, they should go immediately to the hospital. Testing for a subarachnoid hemorrhage is done as soon as possible. Then, treatment can be started as soon as possible. Computed tomography (CT) is done as soon as possible to check for bleeding. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can also detect bleeding but may not be available immediately. A Spinal Tap (lumbar puncture) is done if CT is inconclusive or if CT is normal but doctors still suspect a subarachnoid hemorrhage. It can detect any blood in the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid). A spinal tap is not done if doctors suspect that pressure within the skull is increased enough to make doing a spinal tap risky. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or 