RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 1 -- Former Formula 1 driver Rubens Barrichello said Thursday he is recovering in hospital after a vascular problem.

In a video posted on social media, the 45-year-old Brazilian said he was admitted to hospital last Saturday after waking up with a severe headache.

"I can see everyone is sending me messages and everyone is worried," he said from his hospital bed. "A long time not posting pictures and so on, so I decided to tell you. On Saturday I woke up and had a shower. I felt a terrible headache.

"Luckily my wife was there and she called a friend doctor who took me to the hospital, they took really good care of me. I had a small problem on a vein, but I want to tell you that I am feeling great."

Barrichello, who now races stock cars, said he was feeling better and "practically free" to go home.

"I am still going through exams and so on, but I am honestly great and the difficulties in life show us how to grow and how to be better.

"I am so thankful. Soon I will be back on the racetrack. So good to speak to you guys."

Barrichello won 11 times in a Grand Prix career that spanned from 1993 to 2011. He represented Jordan, Steward, Ferrari, Honda, Brawn and Williams.