When there is bleeding into the brain, it is called an intracerebral hemorrhage or hemorrhagic stroke. Some of the risk factors of developing an intracerebral hemorrhage include high blood pressure, age, history of stroke, alcohol/drug use, etc. Symptoms a patient may exhibit depend on the location of the bleed. Some of the symptoms may include headache, nausea, weakness/numbness, decreased level of consciousness, among others. Obtaining a CT scan is the preferred method of detecting a hemorrhage. Once the patient is stabilized, a CT Angiogram or MR Angiogram can be completed to further evaluate the problem.
Treatment of an intracerebral hemorrhage focuses on stopping the bleeding. If the hemorrhage is caught quickly, medication may be an option for stopping the bleed. In some cases, surgery is needed to remove the blood clot and relieve pressure on the brain. If surgery is indicated, a craniotomy is performed to access the area.