Intracranial haemorrhage, also known as a 'brain bleed', is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood vessels in the brain rupture or leak. This can cause bleeding within the skull, putting pressure on the brain and damaging brain tissue.

It's important to understand the different types of intracranial haemorrhage and their symptoms to seek appropriate medical attention.

Types of Intracranial Haemorrhage

There are several types of intracranial haemorrhage, each with unique symptoms and causes.

Subarachnoid haemorrhage: This kind of bleeding happens in the space between the brain and the thin tissues that cover the brain. A ruptured aneurysm, a weak or balloon-like area in a blood vessel, most commonly causes it. Symptoms include sudden and severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and consciousness loss.
Subdural haemorrhage: This type of haemorrhage occurs in the space between the brain and the inner surface of the skull. It is most commonly caused by a head injury. Symptoms include a headache, confusion, and weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
Epidural haemorrhage: This kind of bleeding happens between the skull and the brain's outermost covering. It is most commonly caused by a head injury. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Intracerebral haemorrhage: This type occurs within the brain tissue. It is most commonly caused by high blood pressure. Symptoms include a headache, confusion, and weakness or numbness on one side of the body.

Causes of intracranial haemorrhage

A rupturing aneurysm is a weak or balloon-like area in a blood vessel that can rupture, causing a subarachnoid haemorrhage.
Head injury: Trauma to the head can cause a subdural, epidural, or intracerebral haemorrhage.
Blood vessel breaks: Many things can cause a blood vessel in the brain to break, which can cause bleeding.
Other causes: Medical conditions like hypertension, brain tumours, or blood disorders can also result in intracerebral haemorrhage.

Symptoms of Intracranial Hemorrhage

Symptoms of an intracranial haemorrhage depend on where and what kind of bleeding is going on.

Headache: Sudden, severe headaches are a common symptom of subarachnoid haemorrhage.
Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can occur with any type of intracranial haemorrhage.
Blurred vision: This can occur with any type of intracranial haemorrhage.

Face, arm, or leg weakness or numbness: This can happen with any kind of bleeding inside the brain.

Loss of consciousness: This can occur with any type of intracranial haemorrhage.
Seizures: This can occur with any type of intracranial haemorrhage.

Intracranial haemorrhage is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of brain damage or death.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Imaging tests, like CT scans and MRIs, can tell what kind of intracranial haemorrhage a person has and where the bleeding is happening.
Surgery might be necessary to treat a ruptured aneurysm or to remove a hematoma (blood clot) that resulted from a haemorrhage.
Medications may be used to help manage this condition.

Based on a study done by the Indian Journal of Neurotrauma, it has been estimated that 20–30% of all strokes in India are caused by intracranial haemorrhage. It is said that intracerebral bleeding happens more often in India than in developed countries. This is mostly because India has a lot of people with high blood pressure, which is one of the main causes of intracerebral haemorrhage. The high number of intracranial haemorrhages in India can also be caused by a lack of access to health care and a delay in treatment.

The road to recovery can be long and difficult, but it is possible with the right care and support. Let's come together as a community to spread awareness, education, and support for those facing this condition. Let's be the beacon of hope and care that guides them through the storm towards a brighter future.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Hyderabad - Kondapur. Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment.

1. What causes intracranial haemorrhage?

Intracranial haemorrhage can be caused by several things, including ruptured aneurysms, head injuries, ruptured blood vessels, hypertension, brain tumours, and blood disorders.

2. Is intracranial haemorrhage a serious condition?

Yes, intracranial haemorrhage is a serious condition that can cause brain damage or even death if it is not treated quickly. If you or someone else seems to be having an intracranial haemorrhage, you should go to the hospital right away.

3. Are there any risk factors for intracranial haemorrhage?

Yes, high blood pressure, brain tumours, blood disorders, and a history of head injury are all things that can lead to intracranial bleeding.

4. How can I prevent intracranial haemorrhage?

To reduce the risk of intracranial haemorrhage, it's important to control hypertension, avoid head injuries, and seek medical attention if you have any of the other risk factors.

5. Is there a difference between India and developed countries when it comes to the number of intracranial haemorrhages?

Yes, India is said to have a higher rate of intracerebral haemorrhage than other developed countries. This is mostly because India has a lot of people with high blood pressure, which is one of the main causes of intracerebral haemorrhage. The high number of intracranial haemorrhages in India can also be caused by a lack of access to health care and a delay in treatment.