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Arteries of the brain
Arteries of the brain
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage

Alternative Names:
Hemorrhage - intracerebral (hypertensive)

Treatment:
Treatment goals include life support measures and control of symptoms.

Surgical removal of the hematoma may be appropriate, especially if there is a hematoma in the base of the brain (cerebellum). If bleeding blocks the flow of spinal fluid, a shunt or drain in the brain may be recommended in some cases.

Medications include antihypertensive medications to control blood pressure; corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone and diuretics to drain fluid from the body to reduce brain swelling; anticonvulsants to control seizures; and analgesics to control pain.

Expectations (prognosis):
The probable outcome is highly variable and depends on the size and location of the bleed. Recovery can occur completely, or with any level of permanent loss of brain function. Medications, surgery and treatments can have severe side effects. Death can occur rapidly despite prompt medical attention.

Complications:
  • Permanent loss of any brain function
  • Seizures
  • Side effects of medications and treatments
  • Complications of surgery


Calling your health care provider:

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate emergency medical attention.


Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage occur. Emergency symptoms include difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, inability to speak and swallowing difficulties, numbness or clumsiness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or confusion.



Review Date: 7/25/2002
Reviewed By: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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