Intracerebral hemorrhage

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Cerebral aneurysm

Intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracranial hemorrhage; Hemorrhage - intracerebral; Hypertensive hemorrhage

An intracerebral hemorrhage is a severe condition requiring prompt medical attention. It may develop quickly into a life-threatening situation.

Treatment depends on the location, cause, and extent of the hemorrhage.

Surgery may be needed, especially if there is bleeding in the cerebellum. Surgery may also be done to repair or remove structures causing the bleed (such as a cerebral aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation).

Medicines used may include painkillers, corticosteroids or diuretics to reduce swelling, and anticonvulsants to control seizures. Blood, blood products, and intravenous fluids may be needed to make up for loss of blood and fluids. Other treatments may be recommended, depending on the condition of the person and the symptoms that develop.

How well a patient does depends on the size of the hematoma and the amount of swelling.

Recovery may occur completely, or there may be some permanent loss of brain function. Death is possible, and may quickly occur despite prompt medical treatment.

Medications, surgery, or other treatments may have severe side effects.

• Hemorrhagic stroke
• Permanent loss of any brain function
• Side effects of medications used to treat the disorder

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if symptoms indicate intracerebral hemorrhage. This is a life-threatening condition.

Emergency symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Inability to speak or swallow
• Paralysis of an arm, leg, or half of the body

Review Date: 07/14/2006
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Division of Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.