Haemorrhagic Stroke

What Is a Haemorrhagic Stroke? A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue. The leaked blood increases pressure inside the skull and reduces normal blood flow, which damages brain cells and disrupts brain function. Although haemorrhagic strokes are less common than ischaemic strokes, they are generally more severe and life-threatening. A classic warning sign is a sudden, intense headache, often described as “the worst headache of my life.” Types of Haemorrhagic Stroke 1. Intracerebral Haemorrhage (ICH) The most common type of haemorrhagic stroke Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures directly within the brain tissue Most often caused by long-standing high blood pressure 2. Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH) Bleeding occurs in the space between the brain and the thin membranes covering it Commonly caused by a ruptured brain aneurysm Often presents with a sudden “thunderclap” headache Symptoms of a Haemorrhagic Stroke Symptoms depend on the location and size of the bleed, but commonly include: Sudden severe headache Nausea and vomiting Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg (usually on one side) Difficulty speaking or understanding speech Vision problems Loss of balance or coordination Confusion or altered consciousness Seizures Loss of consciousness or coma 🚨 This is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment saves lives and brain tissue. Causes of a Haemorrhagic Stroke Several conditions can weaken blood vessels and cause rupture: High blood pressure (hypertension) – the most common cause Brain aneurysms – balloon-like vessel bulges that can burst Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) – abnormal vessel tangles Head injury or trauma Blood-thinning medications Liver disease, affecting blood clotting Cerebral amyloid angiopathy – amyloid protein buildup in vessel walls Complications of a Haemorrhagic Stroke Haemorrhagic strokes can lead to serious and often life-threatening complications: Brain swelling (cerebral oedema) → increased intracranial pressure Hydrocephalus – fluid buildup in brain ventricles Vasospasm – narrowing of blood vessels causing further brain injury Re-bleeding, especially in the first days Permanent neurological damage Death, particularly without rapid treatment How Can a Haemorrhagic Stroke Be Prevented? While not all haemorrhagic strokes can be prevented, risk can be significantly reduced by: Strict blood pressure control Quitting smoking Limiting alcohol intake Eating a healthy, balanced diet Regular physical activity Managing conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol Following medical advice when taking blood thinners