Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Following Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Sections

Abstract

Background: Severe headache in pregnancy is concerning for pre-eclampsia, migraine, post dural spinal headaches, and other intracranial pathology. Case: A 26 year old para 1 presented for repeat Cesarean section. After receiving spinal anesthesia, she developed a sudden, severe headache. Two hours post-operatively, the patient experienced a seizure. CT scan confirmed the diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Conclusion: Subarachnoid hemorrhage should be considered when assessing obstetric patients with severe headache after spinal anesthesia.