Subarachnoid haemorrhage

A guide for patients and carers

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Everyday activities

Can I drive?

Having an SAH is likely to affect your right to hold a current driving licence.

You are legally obliged to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA; see Useful Contacts) about your condition and must not drive until you have DVLA approval.

You might be permitted to resume driving once a doctor has confirmed that you have made a full recovery. If you are experiencing problems as a result of the haemorrhage you might not be allowed to drive for a given period of time (often one year). The DVLA will give your GP this information and might not give it directly to you.

If you have seizures, this period might be extended until the seizures are controlled.

If you continue driving without DVLA approval, insurers will not be obliged to meet any costs and you might be uninsured. This would make you personally liable for any damage you cause to others.

If you have any disabilities you will probably need a medical examination to be certain you can control a vehicle safely. Modifications to your vehicle might be required. Your vision will also be checked.

You can re-apply for your licence before the date you are scheduled to return to driving so that it is ready by the time this date comes around. You will probably only be given a three year licence.

Many insurance companies increase the rates for people who have had an SAH so you might need to consider changing your insurance provider to get a cheaper policy.

Regulations are stricter for HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) or PSV (Public Service Vehicle) licences.

Can I fly?

Yes, depending on your recovery. There is nothing to stop you from flying once you are fit enough to do so.

You might experience headaches during take-off and landing due to pressure changes. You should increase your fluid intake, but try to avoid alcohol and caffeine as these can dehydrate the brain and increase the risk of headaches.

You are advised to avoid flying for at least ten days after a craniotomy. And, up until six weeks after the operation, you should inform the airline with whom you are travelling and your insurance company about the operation.

It is worth bearing in mind that air travel can be stressful for people in good health so it can be especially stressful if you are feeling unwell.

Will the coils or clips affect airport security machines?

No. It is perfectly safe to pass through security machines.

Can I play sport?

Yes, but you should avoid all contact sports like rugby, boxing or martial arts, and strenuous exercise like lifting weights, for at least six months. You can then discuss with your specialist the possibility of resuming these sports if you wish to.

Can I swim?

Swimming is fine once any wounds have healed, but it is a good idea to be accompanied for the first few months while the risk of having seizures is at its highest.

Can I have sex?

You can resume sexual activity as soon as you feel ready. There is no risk. Women are advised to avoid becoming pregnant for the first six months.

Can I wash or colour my hair?

Yes. You can use any hair products like shampoo, conditioner or hair dyes. You can also have treatments like perms.

After a craniotomy, you should wait until the wound on your head has healed.

Can I drink alcohol?

You should not drink any alcohol for the first three weeks. After that, small amounts of alcohol are safe, although you are likely to feel the effects more than you used to. There is also a risk of provoking a seizure if you drink too much. Some people find that they have more severe hangovers after an SAH.

If you are taking any medication, you should check with your doctor if it is safe to drink alcohol.

When can I go back to work?

It is common for people who have had an SAH to take several months off work.

Many people find it helpful to go back part-time or for a few hours each week before returning to full-time work. Other people find it helpful to do a less stressful or less physical job than the one they used to do. It depends on the individual.

You might like to see if there are any clubs or voluntary organisations with whom you can volunteer as a stepping stone to returning to work.

Can I have MRI or MRA scans?

Yes. Modern platinum coils and plastic or titanium clips are designed to be safe with MRI scanning equipment. However, each individual case should be discussed with the consultant neuroradiologist. Scanning equipment varies in different hospitals.