Atmospheric variables and subarachnoid hemorrhage: narrative review

Abstract

Abstract Background Stroke is a neurological emergency that tends to be the first cause of death in many countries. Atmospheric variables are strongly associated with stroke, in which subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) has been associated in many studies to meteorological risk factors such as air pollution, air pressure, weather changes, and ambient temperature. These characteristics may influence the brain circulation and cause SAH, being diagnosed as idiopathic SAH or SAH with unknown cause. Objective The main objective of this review is to present the most relevant meteorological risk factors that may develop subarachnoid hemorrhage according to the current evidence that supports the strong association. Conclusion Brain vessel circulation may be influenced by atmospheric variables such as air pollution and weather changes, generating intrinsic changes in the intima of the vessels which leads to vasospasm and with comorbidities associated may develop SAH.