Long Term Effects

Long Term Effects

Recovery from a subarachnoid haemorrhage can take many months or years and can be slow and uneven. Most effects improve with time but therapy or rehabilitation can help with the more persistent problems. You should discuss this with your GP.

Long term effects include:

• Physical disability such as limb weakness

• Impaired or double vision

• Personality changes such as increased irritability or disinhibition

• Memory problems

Karen (45) from Dorset, SAH July 2005 says:

I have found that my pre-menstrual tension is a lot worse since the SAH. My emotions seem to be more exaggerated or enhanced than they once used to be. My temper is quicker, but still fair; it's just that I really don't want to waste my life with stuff that doesn't matter anymore. I get irritated when people make a mountain out of a mole hill or kick off about silly things.

Keith (46) from Hampshire, SAH August 2006 says:

I am a bit more irritable than I was before and find myself taking it out on my family from time to time. My short term memory is not what it once was and I need constant reminders of certain things. I get tired very easily if I overdo things, so I must learn to listen to my brain telling me it's had enough!