Intracranial Hemorrhages

What is Intracranial Hemorrhage?

Intracranial hemorrhage is a serious medical emergency in which blood from ruptured blood vessels accumulates in the brain. It is usually caused by a head injury, but may also occur spontaneously due to conditions such as an aneurysm, stroke, or tumor. Intracranial hemorrhage can be fatal, and requires immediate medical attention.

Intracranial hemorrhage is divided into four categories based on where the bleeding occurs:

• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage – Bleeding between the brain and its protective covering (the arachnoid membrane).
• Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage – Bleeding inside the brain.
• Epidural Hemorrhage – Bleeding between the skull and the protective covering of the brain (the dura mater).
• Subdural Hemorrhage – Bleeding between the brain and its protective covering (the arachnoid membrane).

Signs and Symptoms of Intracranial Hemorrhage

The signs and symptoms of intracranial hemorrhage depend on the type and location of the bleeding. Common symptoms can include headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, vision changes, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI.

Causes of Intracranial Hemorrhage

Intracranial hemorrhage can be caused by a variety of conditions, including head trauma, aneurysm, stroke, tumor, bleeding disorders, or congestive heart failure.

Risk Factors for Intracranial Hemorrhage

Risk factors for intracranial hemorrhage include use of blood thinners, uncontrolled hypertension, alcohol abuse, traumatic head injury, smoking, and advanced age.

Treatment of Intracranial Hemorrhage

Treatment of intracranial hemorrhage depends on the type and location of the bleeding. Options may include medications to reduce the pressure on the brain, surgery to stop the bleeding, or observation. Some cases may require a combination of treatments.