| Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website. |
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| Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives. |
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CausesA subarachnoid haemorrhage is most often caused by a burst blood vessel in the brain (a ruptured brain aneurysm). A brain aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel caused by a weakness in the blood vessel wall, usually at a point where the vessel branches off. As blood passes through the weakened vessel, the pressure causes a small area to bulge outwards like a balloon. Occasionally, this bulge can burst (rupture), causing bleeding around the brain. More than 8 out of every 10 subarachnoid haemorrhages happen in this way. A brain aneurysm doesn't usually cause any symptoms unless it ruptures. But some people with unruptured aneurysms experience symptoms such as:
It's not known exactly why brain aneurysms develop in some people, although certain risk factors have been identified. These include:
Most brain aneurysms won't rupture but a procedure to prevent subarachnoid haemorrhages is sometimes recommended if they're detected early. Read more about: |
| OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic. | | |
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