What is a hemorrhagic stroke?
A hemorrhagic stroke, also known as a cerebral hemorrhage, is a serious medical emergency that happens when a weakened blood vessel in or around the brain bursts, causing bleeding. This bleeding can damage brain cells, block blood flow to other parts of the brain and create dangerous pressure inside the skull.
There are two main types of hemorrhagic strokes: intracerebral hemorrhage, which occurs when bleeding happens directly in the brain, and subarachnoid hemorrhage, which happens in the space between the brain and its protective layers.
Although less common than ischemic strokes, which occur when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain, hemorrhagic strokes make up about 10 to 15% of all strokes. Both types require immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
Hemorrhagic stroke symptoms
The symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke can vary, depending on where the bleeding happens and how severe it is. Common signs to look out for include:
- A sudden, severe headache
- Confusion or trouble thinking clearly
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems
- Dizziness or trouble balancing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Losing consciousness
Other possible symptoms include:
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Drooping eyelids
- Trouble swallowing
- Changes in behavior or personality
Since these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues, it's important to see a doctor right away if you notice any of them. Getting treatment quickly can make a big difference in your recovery.
When to see a doctor
All strokes are medical emergencies that should be treated at the emergency department. Calling 911 allows you or your loved one to get immediate care on the way to the hospital.
Call 911 if you see someone showing possible signs of hemorrhagic stroke. A good way to remember them is the acronym BE FAST:
- B—Balance: Check for a loss of balance or coordination.
- E—Eyes: Watch for vision changes, like loss of vision or double vision.
- F—Face: Look to see if one side of the mouth droops when smiling.
- A—Arms: Check if one arm drifts downward or feels weak.
- S—Speech: Listen for slurred speech or unusual speech patterns.
- T—Time: It is time to call 911 if you notice any of these symptoms.
If you experience these symptoms, do not drive to the emergency department or ask anyone else to drive you. Instead, always call 911.
Hemorrhagic stroke causes
High blood pressure is the most common cause of hemorrhagic strokes. Having high blood pressure over a long period can weaken blood vessels. Sometimes, these weakened blood vessels stretch, creating a balloon or bulge called an aneurysm. The walls of an aneurysm are thin, making them more likely to break open.
Another possible cause of a hemorrhagic stroke is an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). In an AVM, problems with the arteries cause poor blood flow in the brain. Arteries and veins in an AVM are also thin and can bulge and break open easily, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
Complications of hemorrhagic stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke complications can vary from person to person. The types of complications you have depend on the part of the brain affected and how severe the stroke was. Sometimes, complications resolve quickly. In other cases, complications cause lifelong damage.
Receiving treatment as soon as possible and actively participating in stroke rehabilitation can improve your daily functioning, reduce disability and help you become more independent after a stroke.
Possible complications of a hemorrhagic stroke include:
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Impaired balance or coordination
- Issues with speaking or swallowing
- Stiff or tight muscles on one side of the body
- Vision changes, such as double vision or loss of vision
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Seizures
- Cognitive or behavioral changes
- Depression
