Introduction

Abstract

A subarachnoid hemorrhage from a ruptured aneurysm is a subset of stroke. Although it constitutes only 5 % of all strokes, the loss of productive life years from aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the general population is as large as that from brain infarcts, the most common type of stroke. Moreover, its economic burden is considerable. The huge impact of subarachnoid hemorrhage is explained by the young age at which it occurs and the poor outcome. Around one of every three patients dies within the initial 4 weeks after the hemorrhage, and one of five survivors remains dependent on help for activities of daily living. Moreover, many patients without obvious focal deficits have cognitive complaints or deficits, “minor” neurological deficits, a sleep disorder or increased fatigue, and symptoms of anxiety or depression. All these decrease day-to-day functioning, hamper reintegration in social and professional roles and reduce quality of life.