Hemorrhagic stroke: symptoms, causes and treatment

Definition of a hemorrhagic stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke (hemorrhagic stroke) is a type of stroke that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts.

This condition can result in damage to brain cells, so that brain function will be disrupted. It also runs the risk of causing permanent brain damage.

This bleeding can occur in the brain or in the outer layer of the brain, to be precise between the brain and the skull. Compared to ischemic strokes, hemorrhagic strokes tend to occur less frequently.

This bleeding stroke is divided into two types, namely:

1. Intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a type of hemorrhagic stroke that occurs because there are damaged blood vessels in the brain.

If you have high blood pressure, consume alcohol, and use illegal drugs, your risk of experiencing this condition will certainly increase.

In fact, other types of stroke can turn into intracerebral hemorrhage, including strokes that occur without bleeding, such as thrombotic strokes and embolic strokes.

2. Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Meanwhile, subarachnoid hemorrhage is damage to blood vessels that causes blood to collect on the surface of the brain. This means that bleeding does not occur in the brain, but in the outer layer of the brain or in the space between the brain and skull.

When the blood mixes with the spinal fluid, there is pressure on the brain which causes headaches that appear suddenly. This may be a marker for subarachnoid hemorrhage.

How common is hemorrhagic stroke?

Stroke can be divided into two types, namely ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke is a rare type. This type only accounts for about 20% of all stroke cases, but is more dangerous and has the potential to cause death.

As many as 15 million people suffer from this disease every year. Of these, about 5 million sufferers have permanent disabilities, and another 5 million have died.

This disease is more common in elderly patients, namely 55 years and over. However, there are also several cases of hemorrhagic stroke that have occurred in younger patients. In fact, strokes can occur in children.

Signs & symptoms of hemorrhagic stroke

The signs and symptoms of hemorrhagic stroke vary from patient to patient. This depends on the type of stroke and its severity.

Symptoms of intracerebral hemorrhage

Symptoms of this type of intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke always appear when the patient is conscious. These symptoms tend to appear without warning, but they can get worse over time.

The symptoms of this bleeding will get worse in just 30-90 minutes. Symptoms include:

• Weakness that appeared suddenly.
• Numbness or paralysis in any part of the body.
• Difficulty speaking.
• Cannot control eye movement properly.
• Gag.
• Can't walk.
• Irregular breathing.
• Fainting.
• Coma.

Symptoms of subarachnoid hemorrhage

Usually, subarachnoid hemorrhage occurs as a result of a blood vessel that bursts after swelling. Symptoms include:

• Headaches that appear suddenly and are very painful.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Nausea accompanied by vomiting.
• Not being able to stare at too bright a light.
• The neck feels stiff.
• Dizzy.
• Confusion.
• Seizures.
• Loss of self-awareness.

Causes of hemorrhagic stroke

Hemorrhagic strokes are generally caused by several health problems or conditions. The following are the causes of hemorrhagic stroke:

1. High blood pressure (hypertension)

High blood pressure or hypertension is the most common cause of hemorrhagic stroke, especially in the intracerebral type.

Hypertension can occur due to abnormalities or problems with the kidneys or the consumption of certain drugs. However, in some cases, this condition does not have any cause or appears suddenly.

2. Aneurysms

Aneurysms are enlargement or inflammation of the artery walls. The artery walls thin out and become weak, so that dilation can occur.

This condition can be present at birth (congenital), or it may develop over time, especially if you have a history of hypertension.

3. Brain amyloid angiopathy

Amyloid angiopathy is a condition in which amyloid protein builds up in the blood vessels of the brain. This can lead to damage, so bleeding has the potential to occur.

Amyloid angiopathy is more common in older people.

4.Arterial malformation (AVM)

Arterial malformation or AVM is a condition in which there is an abnormality in the growth of a group of blood vessels. This can occur in any part of the body, including the brain.

AVMs usually appear at birth. If the AVM is located in the brain, there is a risk of bleeding.

5. Anticoagulant medication (blood thinners)

Some people taking drugs to reduce the risk of blood clots can actually have the potential to experience bleeding in the brain.

Other possibilities that can cause bleeding in the brain are:

• Head injury.
• Impaired blood circulation.
• Consumption of illegal drugs such as cocaine.

Risk factors for hemorrhagic stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke is a condition that can affect people of all ages. However, there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing this disease.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will definitely suffer from this disease. There is also the possibility that you will develop this disease even though you do not have any risk factors.

The following are risk factors that can trigger bleeding in the brain:

1. Old age

This disease is more common in elderly patients, namely 55 years and over.

2. Gender

This disease also affects more female patients than men.

3. History of high blood pressure

If you have or frequently suffer from high blood pressure (hypertension), you have a greater chance of having this stroke.

4. Family medical history of having had a stroke or heart problem

If anyone in your family has suffered from a stroke or a history of heart attack, your risk for suffering a stroke is also higher.

5. Smoking habits or second-hand smoke

People who actively smoke and who are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke in the environment have a higher risk of having a stroke.

6. High cholesterol levels

High cholesterol levels also contribute to a person's chances of suffering from a hemorrhagic stroke.

7. Have had a sleep apnea disorder

Sleep apnea disorder is a condition in which breathing is often interrupted during sleep. This condition can increase a person's risk of having a stroke or bleeding in the brain.

8. Unhealthy lifestyle

If you are not active in sports, drink alcohol frequently, and are overweight, your chances of having a hemorrhagic stroke are greater.

9. Hormone therapy or contraceptive pills

Women who use contraceptive pills or take estrogen hormone therapy are more likely to have this disease in the future.

Complications of hemorrhagic stroke

A hemorrhagic stroke can cause temporary or permanent disability, depending on how long the brain has been deprived of blood flow and which part of the brain is affected.

Possible complications of a hemorrhagic stroke include:

1. Paralyzed

Stroke has the potential to cause one or more parts of the body to experience paralysis. This usually only occurs on one side of the body, so you may lose control of certain muscles.

This condition can cause disruption in daily activities, such as eating, walking, and changing clothes. That means you can't do everything yourself.

2. Difficulty speaking or swallowing

Stroke can also affect control of the muscles in the mouth and throat. You may experience difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), speaking (dysarthria), and even difficulty communicating with everyday language (aphasia).

3. Memory loss and difficulty thinking

This condition also causes some sufferers to experience partial memory loss. Some also have difficulty thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and understanding simple concepts.

4. Emotional problems

People with strokes may also have difficulty controlling their emotions, making them prone to depression.

5. Pain or aches

People with this disease may also feel strange sensations in their body parts, ranging from tingling, pain, to pain. Some people also complain of being sensitive to temperature changes.

Hemorrhagic stroke diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What tests are done to diagnose hemorrhagic stroke?

Hemorrhagic stroke diagnosis is necessary so that the medical team and doctors can find out the right type of treatment, depending on the part of the brain that is damaged.

First of all, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, any medical history you and your family members have, and check your blood pressure and heart rate.

After that, your doctor may also use an instrument called an ophthalmoscope to check for blood clots at the back of your eye.

Here are some additional tests that your doctor will order if you are suspected of having a hemorrhagic stroke:

1. Blood test

Blood tests are done to find out how fast your blood clots, what your sugar levels are, and the possibility of infection.

2. CT scan

A CT scan can produce detailed images of your brain. Through a CT scan, your doctor can detect any bleeding, tumor, or stroke in your brain. There are several types of CT scans that can be done, depending on your condition.

3. MRI scan

An MRI scan uses radio waves and magnets to produce images of the inside of your brain. With this test, the doctor can check for damage to brain tissue due to ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes.

4. Carotid ultrasound

In this test, sound waves are used to produce an image of the carotid artery. These arteries are located in your neck. The purpose of this test is to detect the buildup of fat and blood flow in your carotid arteries.

5. Angiogram of the brain

The doctor will insert a small catheter through your groin. This catheter will then pass into your carotid or vertebral artery.

Then, a dye will be injected so that your arteries can be seen on an X-ray. The goal is to look at the arteries of your brain and neck in greater detail.

6. Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram or cardiac echo test aims to find any clots in your heart, which can potentially cause damage to the brain.

What are the usual treatments for hemorrhagic stroke?

If you have a stroke, it is important for you to get medical attention immediately. Getting treatment as soon as possible can save your life.

Treatment for hemorrhagic stroke generally includes:

• Swelling of the brain drugs.
• Medication to relieve headaches.
• Seizure drugs, such as phenytoin.

In some severe cases, surgical procedures are needed to stop bleeding, reduce pressure inside the skull, and speed up recovery. Some of the types of surgery that can be performed are:

• Arterial malformation surgery.
• Surgery on aneurysms.
• Use of a catheter.
• Stereotactic radiosurgery.

To help the recovery process faster, various types of therapy and rehabilitation may be required. Options include physical therapy, occupational therapy, or talk therapy.

The goal of rehabilitation is to help the patient restore physical and speaking abilities as quickly as possible.

Prevention of hemorrhagic stroke

The following are the lifestyle that can help you prevent stroke, including bleeding strokes:

1. Live a healthier diet

You can try to replace your diet with a menu that is healthier and more nutritious. Instead, reduce cholesterol, saturated fat, sugar, and sodium in your diet.

In addition to implementing a healthy diet, control blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in the body on a regular basis to find out how eating patterns affect your health condition.

Increase your consumption of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains so that you avoid diseases that can trigger strokes.

2. Exercise regularly

Make sure you regularly move your body every day. Exercise can lower blood pressure and improve the health of your blood vessels and heart.

You can try exercising 30 minutes a day, with activities such as walking leisurely, jogging , swimming, or cycling. No need to try sports that are too strenuous because the most important thing is to be consistent and routine in doing it.

3. Avoid smoking and alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption not only increase your risk of having a stroke, they can adversely affect your overall health. Therefore, start avoiding cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.

4. Overcome sleep disorders

If you have a sleep disorder, check with your doctor to check for symptoms of sleep disorders. The reason is, according to the Mayo Clinic, there are sleep disorders that can cause you to not breathe for a while. If left unchecked, this can certainly lead to a stroke.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.