Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a neurological malady that has garnered global
public health apprehension due to its severity. Research indicates that cerebral ischemic
events subsequent to aSAH treatment are both pervasive and intricate, with their occurrence
mechanism and timing categorized into early and late onset. Early cerebral ischemia typically
manifests within 1-3 days post-aSAH onset, primarily attributed to factors such as cerebral
vasospasm, hemorrhagic cerebral edema, and thrombosis. The severity of these lesions can be
alleviated through medical, endovascular, and surgical interventions. Conversely, delayed
cerebral ischemia generally arises between 4 days to 2 weeks after surgery, predominantly
stemming from cerebral edema, inflammatory reactions, cortical depolarization, and
microthrombosis. Managing delayed cerebral ischemia necessitates vigilant patient monitoring
and the maintenance of stable cerebral blood flow, achieved by mitigating the impact of
cerebral edema and inflammatory responses. Cerebral ischemia induces physiological changes
like nerve cell damage, apoptosis, glial cell proliferation, and inflammatory responses,
potentially impacting brain function, particularly cognitive function. Consequently, the
application of our established TAPS prognostic model effectively identifies individuals at a
higher risk of cognitive dysfunction and poor prognosis, facilitating the screening of
potential intervention candidates for this study.
In recent years, the scientific community has discerned the pivotal role of microglia in
preserving the stability of the brain environment. By modulating their activities, the degree
of ischemia can be effectively controlled, mitigating subsequent impairments in brain
function. This revelation forms the basis for pioneering nonpharmacological treatment
strategies. Among these innovative approaches, frequency-specific audio therapy, notably
utilizing 40Hz audio and binaural beat audio, has garnered significant attention. 40Hz audio
induces gamma waves in the brain, linked to cognitive functions such as attention, memory,
and perception. Binaural beat audio, a neuroacoustic phenomenon, involves introducing two
sounds with slightly different frequencies to the ears, prompting the brain to create a new
EEG frequency. Regarding 40Hz audio, its potential efficacy is closely tied to the induction
of gamma waves, associated with heightened focus and information processing. Laboratory
studies suggest that playing 40Hz audio stimulates the brain to produce more gamma waves,
hinting at its potential to enhance human cognitive function by regulating electrical brain
activity. Binaural beat audio operates on a more intricate level. The brain attempts to
"synchronize" two audio pieces with slightly different frequencies, generating a new EEG
frequency. This neuroacoustic phenomenon induces specific brain activity, potentially
enhancing cognitive function. Crucially, whether 40Hz audio or binaural beat audio, their
efficacy may hinge on the "neuroplasticity" of the brain, signifying the brain's ability to
alter its structure and function in response to sustained external stimulation. This
"frequency-following response" induced by audio stimuli may bring about neuroplasticity
changes, further enhancing cognitive function.
For specific brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease, audio therapy could prove impactful.
In Alzheimer's patients, gamma-wave activity in the brain is typically diminished, but
preliminary studies indicate that 40Hz audio stimulation may enhance gamma activity,
potentially improving memory and attention. Moreover, binaural beat audio may contribute to
enhancing mental and physical well-being. Research suggests that it can modify the brain's
electrical activity pattern, improving emotional states, reducing anxiety and stress, and
enhancing sleep quality.
In conclusion, both 40Hz audio and binaural beat audio, as potential non-pharmacological
therapeutic strategies, warrant widespread attention from the research community. Although
the current study is in its early stages, if audio therapy effectively ameliorates the
cognitive dysfunction resulting from aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, it could introduce
novel possibilities for the rehabilitation of this condition.