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Stroke is claiming millions of lives every year globally. As per the Global Burden of Disease 2019, India has a high incidence and prevalence rate of 1,291,245 and 9,650,716 cases in a year. Acute and spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage is the second most common form of stroke, affecting more than 2 million people worldwide annually. At the same time, ischaemic stroke has high mortality and morbidity rates. Brain haemorrhage is a life-threatening condition that needs immediate treatment. This is only possible if caregivers and individuals can recognise the urgent signs of this disease. In this blog, let's understand what a brain haemorrhage is and the critical brain bleed symptoms everyone should be aware of.
Synopsis
What is a Brain Haemorrhage?
A brain haemorrhage, also known as a cerebral or intracranial haemorrhage, is a type of stroke that involves bleeding in the brain. The brain is dependent on blood vessels to get oxygen and other nutrients, and when a blood vessel bursts or leaks, it causes bleeding in the brain and skull. The pressure accumulates, preventing oxygen from reaching the brain cells and leading to their destruction. This is a life-threatening condition, and if not treated within the golden hour (the critical initial period of one hour), it can result in death or lifelong disability. The severity of the brain haemorrhage will depend on its location, size, and the rate of the bleeding.
Crucial Signs of Brain Haemorrhage
To increase the chances of survival, caregivers and individuals need to recognise the urgent brain haemorrhage symptoms. These signs may come on suddenly, so make sure to recognise them and get immediate medical care at the nearest emergency centre.
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Sudden painful and severe headache: This is usually the first hallmark symptom of a brain bleed. It has an intense and sudden onset, which is often described as the worst headache that also feels like an internal bursting sensation within the head.
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Neurological issues: A brain bleed affects the brain's functioning, causing neurological issues as follows:
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Sudden weakness, numbness, or paralysis affects one side of the body, mainly in the face, arm, or leg.
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Speech issues, such as difficulty speaking, slurred speech, confusion, or understanding the speech of others.
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Vision impairment: Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, blurred or double vision.
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Loss of balance, coordination, dizziness, and difficulty walking
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Seizures: Occasionally can trigger seizures
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Mental Imbalance: One should be watchful as the affected person may show mental confusion, find it difficult to stay alert, or remember anything. Loss of consciousness and coma also occur in severe cases.
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Nausea and vomiting: Sudden episodes of vomiting or persistent nausea with feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness are crucial signs.
There can be some other severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, an abnormal heartbeat, etc. If any of these signs progressively worsen in a short period, get immediate medical help. Early detection and prompt medical care in the golden hour after a brain haemorrhage can significantly enhance the treatment outcomes, saving the lives of your loved ones.
Consult our neurosurgeon in Patiala if you are experiencing brain haemorrhage symptoms.
Treatment Options for Brain Haemorrhage
The treatment for brain haemorrhage will depend upon its cause, location, and severity. This may be divided into two parts:
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Treating the haemorrhage: If the size of the haematoma is large, emergency surgery may be done to relieve pressure, repair ruptured blood vessels, or remove blood clots. It may include Decompression, Craniectomy, and Craniotomy techniques. If the issue is mild, medicines may be used to prevent seizures, reduce swelling, etc.
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Treating the cause of haemorrhage: This is crucial, as it can get fatal if the cause of bleeding is not treated. Diagnostic tests are done, and the underlying cause of the issue is identified to determine further treatment.
After the treatment, rehabilitation is needed to regain the lost skills like mobility, speech, or cognitive function.
Consult our neurosurgery hospital in Patiala if you are experiencing brain hemorrhage signs and symptoms and need immediate treatment.
Conclusion
Stroke is the leading cause of death, and a brain bleed can permanently damage the brain cells, leading to lifelong disability or death. Time is crucial in such cases. Look for the discussed crucial signs, especially after a fall or head injury. A swift action by a caregiver in such a scary situation can improve treatment outcomes. Seek emergency medical help from a specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, as early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term prognosis.
FAQ's
The common causes of brain haemorrhage are:
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Head trauma after a car accident, a fall, or an injury
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High blood pressure
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A blood clot
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Blood vessel abnormalities
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Atherosclerosis
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A brain tumour
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Cerebral aneurysm
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Liver disease
Caregivers need to react quickly to save a life by following these tips:
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Understand the urgent signs of brain bleed and act quickly, as time is critical.
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Call the emergency helpline immediately or take the person directly to the emergency department.
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Stay calm and make the person calm and comfortable. Make them lie down with their heads elevated.
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Keep a check on their vital signs.
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Be ready for long-term rehabilitation needs and care of your loved one.
The recovery after a haemorrhagic stroke will depend on the severity of the stroke, the amount of tissue damage, and how soon you get treatment. Although there is survival if treated on time, the recovery period is long, taking months or even years.
Although it may not be possible to completely prevent brain haemorrhage, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk. This includes maintaining blood pressure, a healthy weight, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, and regulating blood sugar levels.
For emergency care, visit the emergency department directly. For follow-ups or regular checkups, you can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, by contacting us or visiting our website.
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