Brain Hemorrhage - Types, Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

A brain hemorrhage, also known as a cerebral brain bleed, happens when an artery in the brain bursts, leading to localized bleeding in the nearby tissues. This bleeding can result in the death of brain cells and cause various serious health issues.

Different Types of Brain Bleeds

• Intracerebral Hemorrhage : Bleeding within the cerebral tissue itself is known as Intracerebral Hemorrhage.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage : It refers to bleeding between the brain and the surrounding membrane, called the subarachnoid space.
• Subdural Hemorrhage : When bleeding occurs between the cerebral surface and the outermost layer of the meninges, known as the dura mater, it is called Subdural Hemorrhage.
• Epidural Hemorrhage : it occurs when bleeding takes place between the inner surface of the skull and the dura mater.

Brain Hemorrhage Causes

• Head Trauma: Often seen in younger individuals as a result of accidents or falls.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Prolonged high blood pressure may cause blood vessel walls to weaken.
• Aneurysm: A blood vessel that is weakened and bulges, potentially leading to a rupture.
• Blood Vessel Abnormalities: Conditions such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) can result in bleeding.
• Blood Disorders: Diseases like hemophilia and sickle cell anemia can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Liver Disease: Impaired blood clotting due to liver disease can heighten the chances of bleeding.
• Brain Tumors: Tumors in the brain can cause bleeding if they put pressure on or invade blood vessels.

Symptoms of Brain Hemorrhage

• Sudden Intense Headache: It is described as the most severe headache.
• Nausea and Vomiting: They are common early signs.
• Weakness or Numbness: Often on one side of the body.
• Lack of Balance or Coordination: Trouble with walking or performing tasks.
• Changes in Vision: Blurry or double vision.
• Trouble Speaking or Understanding Speech: Sudden confusion.
• Seizures: New seizures, especially in those without a history.
• Loss of Consciousness: Ranging from fainting to coma.

Diagnosis of Brain Hemorrhage

Accurate diagnosis of a Cerebral Hemorrhage involves several key diagnostic tests:

• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): CT scans are the primary imaging test for quickly detecting bleeding, providing detailed brain images.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans are utilized for more detailed brain images, especially for identifying smaller or deeper hemorrhages.
• Cerebral Angiography: Cerebral angiography visualizes blood vessels in the brain to pinpoint the source of bleeding, such as aneurysms or AVMs.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): Lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, analyzes cerebrospinal fluid for blood presence when subarachnoid hemorrhage is suspected but not visible on CT scans.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests evaluate clotting ability and overall health, identifying any underlying conditions that may be contributing to bleeding.

It's important to remember that internal bleeding in the brain is a serious medical emergency. Identifying symptoms quickly and getting immediate medical help can make a big difference in saving lives and minimizing long-term complications. Getting an early and accurate diagnosis is key to receiving the best possible treatment and improving overall outcomes.

For accurate diagnostic services and expert care, visit Sprint Diagnostics. Our state-of-the-art imaging and testing facilities guarantee accurate and timely diagnosis, leading to the best possible outcomes.