Cerebral haemorrhage is a type of stroke

Cerebral haemorrhage is a type of stroke

A cerebral haemorrhage is a type of stroke caused by bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain. It is sometimes called a haemorrhagic stroke. Without prompt medical treatment, this can result in death. A person who survives is often left with permanent disabilities.

Causes include weakened blood vessel walls, head trauma or congenital conditions (conditions that are present at birth). A cerebral haemorrhage is a life-threatening emergency. Approximately one in 10 strokes is caused by cerebral haemorrhage. This type of stroke (haemorrhagic stroke) is usually much more severe than ischaemic stroke, although symptoms are similar.

The major risk factor for cerebral haemorrhage is long-standing high blood pressure (hypertension) that weakens the walls of blood vessels, which then may split under the pressure.

Treatment of cerebral haemorrhage

After admission to hospital, treatment depends on the location and severity of the haemorrhage, but may include:

• medications to lower blood pressure after onset of haemorrhage
• treatment for underlying causes, such as long-term use of antihypertensive medications
• certain surgical procedures.

Any suspected signs and symptoms of cerebral haemorrhage require urgent medical attention. Dial triple zero (000) to call an ambulance to take the person to the nearest hospital emergency department.