Haemorrhagic stroke

Haemorrhagic Stroke is a type of stroke that occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain. The blood accumulates and compresses the surrounding brain tissue. There are two types of haemorrhagic strokes: Intracerebral haemorrhage and Subarachnoid haemorrhage.

Causes

Haemorrhagic strokes are caused by aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Other conditions that can lead to haemorrhagic stroke include high blood pressure (hypertension), overdose of anticoagulants and trauma.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a haemorrhagic stroke can be similar to those of an ischemic stroke, and can include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. Other symptoms can include confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, difficulty seeing in one or both eyes, severe headache with no known cause, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and more.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a haemorrhagic stroke is typically done through a CT scan or MRI of the brain. Other tests may include a cerebral angiogram, echocardiogram, or blood tests.

Treatment

Treatment for haemorrhagic stroke aims to control bleeding, reduce pressure in the brain, and stabilize vital signs, especially blood pressure. Medications to control blood pressure, brain swelling, and potential seizures are commonly used. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair blood vessel abnormalities associated with haemorrhagic strokes.

Prognosis

The prognosis for haemorrhagic stroke depends on the location and extent of bleeding, the patient's age, overall health, and medical history. Early treatment can improve the prognosis.

Prevention

Prevention of haemorrhagic stroke is focused on managing its main risk factors, which include high blood pressure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, poor diet, and obesity.

See also

• Stroke
• Ischemic stroke
• Aneurysm
• Arteriovenous malformation

Haemorrhagic stroke Resources
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