Final answer:
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a serious condition caused by bleeding in the space surrounding the brain, commonly due to ruptured brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, or head trauma.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Causes of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a type of hemorrhagic stroke where bleeding occurs between the arachnoid membrane and the pia mater surrounding the brain. This condition can lead to serious complications including stroke, coma, or death. The three most common causes of SAH include brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and head trauma. Brain aneurysms, which are weakened areas of a blood vessel that bulge or balloon out, are the most frequent cause when they rupture. AVMs, which are tangles of blood vessels that can disrupt normal blood flow and cause bleeding, are another significant cause. Finally, physical trauma to the skull can damage the blood vessels in the subarachnoid space, leading to a hemorrhage. Each of these causes presents a severe health risk and requires immediate medical attention.