Which symptom is most likely to occur with an acute subarachnoid hemorrhage?

• A. Severe headache
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Loss of motor function
• D. Blurring of vision

Answer: (A)

An acute subarachnoid hemorrhage typically presents with a severe headache, often described as a sudden, intense headache that is different from any previous headaches experienced by the individual. This type of headache is often referred to as a "thunderclap" headache because of its abrupt onset and extreme intensity. The headache occurs due to the irritation of the meninges from the blood that has spilled into the subarachnoid space, leading to significant pain and discomfort.

The other symptoms mentioned are less characteristic of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. While bradycardia can occur in various neurological conditions, it is not a primary symptom of this specific type of hemorrhage. Loss of motor function may be more associated with other types of strokes, such as ischemic strokes or hemorrhagic strokes in specific areas affecting motor pathways. Blurring of vision might occur due to increased intracranial pressure or direct effects on visual pathways, but it is not as definitive as the severe headache found in cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Therefore, the severe headache stands out as the most likely symptom associated with an acute subarachnoid hemorrhage.