Subarachnoid haemorrhage

A guide for patients and carers

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Going home

Physiotherapy: helps physical
recovery and the recovery of movements: for example, walking.

Occupational Therapy: helps redevelop the skills you need to perform everyday activities like using equipment around the home.

Speech and Language Therapy: helps the recovery of communication skills.
You might be discharged home or back to your first hospital. This will depend on the speed of your recovery, what support you have at home, and how far you have to travel. Most people return to their first hospital to begin their convalescence. Depending on the effects of your SAH, arrangements might be made for you to have physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech and language therapy.

What follow-up tests and
investigations will I need?

It is likely that you will have a further angiogram and/or an MRA scan after six months. You are then likely to have MRA scans once or twice a year for up to five years. The timing of the follow-up tests will differ depending on the set-up in your local area.

What precautions should I be taking now?

  • Continue to take your medication as prescribed
  • Keep up your fluid intake (two to three litres a day)
  • Give up smoking, if you smoke
  • Don’t drive; contact the DVLA (see Everyday activities)
  • Avoid activities like climbing ladders for the first three months
  • Make sure your blood pressure is controlled

Is the damage permanent?

Not necessarily. Many people make a full recovery. Some people might experience various disabilities and problems which can continue to improve several years after their SAH.
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