Hemorrhagic Stroke

A stroke means brain does not get enough blood supply because of blockage of arteries or

Bleeding into or around the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke is due to bleeding into or around the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel bursts inside the brain. Damage can happen rapidly as brain is very sensitive to bleeding. Bleeding irritates brain tissue which causes swelling. The expansion of bleeding is resisted by surrounding tissues of brain, which finally forms a mass 'hematoma'. Both will compress and displace normal brain tissue. Normally hemorrhagic stroke is associated with high blood pressure. Another cause is an aneurysm. A weak spot in an artery wall, which ballons out because of the pressure of the blood circulating inside the affected artery. It can burst and cause serious harm. It is yet unclear why people develop an aneurysm. But it may be genetic. Stroke can also be caused by the accumulation of a protein called amyloid within the artery walls.

Cancer can cause bleeding in brain. Illicit drugs like cocaine can also cause stroke.

Symptoms are sudden onset and may quickly become worse. Weaknesses to move a body part, numbness, decreased or lost vision, sudden headache, speech difficulty are common symptoms. CT scan is the most important test to confirm the brain hemorrhage. Immediate treatment is possible in an intensive care unit, where complications can immediately be detected. Breathing is also given careful attention because sometimes irregular breathing patterns are developed after stroke.

Treatment for hemorrhagic stroke includes life-saving measures, relieving symptoms, repairing the cause of the bleeding, preventing complication and starting rehabilitation.

The blood pressure may be too high or too low in such cases. Bed rest may be advised and some activities like bending over, lying flat, sudden position changes are avoided.

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy are advised to prevent complications and promote recovery function. Surgery is also needed sometimes to save patient's life. Hematoma is removed in surgery.

In every case recovery and treatment depends upon the patient. Some people may not aware of the surrounding changes, they must given attention properly. Family counseling helps to explain the treatment to other members of family. Preparation of accepting unhappy incidents should be done with patient.

Recommended Reading:

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