Mrs. Mui, a long-term hypertension patient, stopped taking her medication two weeks prior to her hospitalization due to perceived improvement. Three days before admission, she began experiencing severe headaches in her crown, occipital, shoulder, and neck areas, accompanied by dizziness.

On 19/9, Dr. Hoang Thi Binh from the Department of Cardiology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, reported that Mrs. Mui's blood pressure upon arrival was 200/110 mmHg. She was suffering from headaches, dizziness, and a bilateral subarachnoid hemorrhage. This type of brain hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane (meninges).

Most subarachnoid hemorrhages are caused by a ruptured brain aneurysm. Other risk factors include trauma, arteriovenous malformations, vasculitis, intracranial arterial dissection, sickle cell anemia, coagulation disorders, and substance abuse.

"Mrs. Mui's decision to discontinue her medication led to a surge in blood pressure, which put stress on a pre-existing aneurysm, causing it to rupture and resulting in a subarachnoid hemorrhage," explained Dr. Huynh Thanh Kieu, Head of Cardiology 1 at Tam Anh General Hospital.

Doctors administered emergency blood pressure medication, along with medication to reduce brain swelling, prevent arterial spasms, and manage pain. Mrs. Mui's dizziness and headaches subsided, her blood pressure returned to a normal range of 110-120/80 mmHg, and she was discharged after three days without any lasting effects from the hemorrhage.

Dr. Binh advises Mrs. Mui to adhere to her prescribed medication after discharge. Photo: Ha Vu

Dr. Binh advises Mrs. Mui to adhere to her prescribed medication after discharge. Photo: Ha Vu

According to Dr. Kieu, most subarachnoid hemorrhages result from ruptured brain aneurysms or head trauma. Managing these two risk factors is the most effective preventative measure. Annual check-ups are recommended, especially for older adults and those with hypertension. Proactive blood pressure management includes medication adherence and lifestyle changes. Regular exercise is encouraged, but strenuous activity and excessive weightlifting should be avoided to prevent aneurysm rupture. A healthy, balanced diet, abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and other substances are also crucial.

Individuals with a history of hypertension must take their medication as prescribed. Blood pressure medication aims to control blood pressure within a target range, not to cure the condition. Even when the condition is stable, discontinuing treatment can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure, leading to dangerous complications. Patients should never stop or change their medication without consulting their doctor.

Thu Ha

*The patient's name has been changed.