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Intracerebral hemorrhage    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Intracranial hemorrhage; Hemorrhage - intracerebral

Treatment

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a severe condition requiring prompt medical attention even if symptoms are episodic or progressive. It may develop quickly into a life-threatening situation.

Treatment goals include lifesaving interventions, supportive measures, and control of symptoms. Treatment varies, depending on the specific location, extent, and cause of the bleeding.

Surgical removal of hematomas may be appropriate, especially if there is a hematoma in the cerebellum. Surgical repair of structures causing the bleed (repair of aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation) may be appropriate in some cases.

Medicines used may include corticosteroids or diuretics to reduce swelling, anticonvulsants to control seizures, analgesics to control pain, or others.

Blood, blood products, intravenous fluids, or medications may be appropriate to counteract bleeding and loss of blood volume.

Other treatments may be appropriate.

Prognosis

The outcome varies highly. Death may occur rapidly despite prompt medical treatment. Recovery may occur completely or with a permanent loss of brain functions. Medications, surgery, or treatments may have severe side effects.

Complications

• Hemorrhagic stroke
• Permanent loss of any brain function
• Side effects of medications used to treat the disorder
• Complications of surgery

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms indicate intracerebral hemorrhage. This is a serious condition.

Emergency symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Inability to speak or swallow

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