A follow-up on persons 5 years after subarachnoid hemorrhage

Abstract

Degree Project Thesis, Programme in Medicine. TITLE: A follow-up on persons 5 years after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Background Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) has high mortality, high morbidity among survivors, and is a major course of long-term disabilities. To develop treatment and rehabilitation for persons after SAH, long-term follow-up is needed. Several studies are published on short-term outcome with decreased Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL), mental health and cognitive function, though outcome studies >12 months post-SAH are scarce. Aim The aim of this study was investigate physical/emotional status, participation and HRQoL, 5 years after SAH. Methods The study population were persons living in Gothenburg area, treated at Sahlgrenska University hospital after SAH 2009-2010. The study population received by regular mail in 2014 a questionnaire contained EuroQol-5Dimensions, Stroke Impact Scale, Occupational Gaps Questionnaire and Impact of Participation and Autonomy regarding their life situation, functioning, participation, and their HRQoL Results The questionnaires was sent to 42 persons where 26 (62%), average age 59, responded, in mean 5.1 years post SAH. The persons with SAH in this study had in general lower HRQoL compared to Swedish healthy norm values and particularly lower in the domain of anxiety and depression. Twenty-two of the persons with SAH had acceptable participation. Half of the study population was independent in their daily life, and 8 of 19 had returned to work full time. Emotional problems were common and several reported problems with fatigue, memory and executive function. Conclusions This long-term follow-up in persons 5 years after a SAH showed in general high level of physical function and autonomy, but lower HRQoL and emotional health. Most of the persons after SAH had acceptable participation. Keywords: subarachnoid haemorrhage, outcomes, quality of life, participation