Dr. John D. Lipani is a leading expert in surgical brain and spine procedures providing state-of-the-art neurosurgical care in New Jersey.
A cerebral hemorrhage, also known as a brain hemorrhage, is a type of stroke caused by a blood vessel in the brain that bursts and causes localized bleeding in the surrounding tissues. There are several causes and risk factors associated with a cerebral hemorrhage such as head trauma, high blood pressure, aneurysms, blood vessel abnormalities, amyloid angiopathy, blood or bleeding disorders, liver disease and brain tumors.
A cerebral hemorrhage is often labeled according to the location where it occurs in the brain. In general, bleeding anywhere within the skull is referred to as an intracranial hemorrhage. Bleeding can also occur between the thin covering of the brain and the brain tissue itself, referred to as a subarachnoid hemorrhage that is often the result of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. If a blood clot occurs between the skull and the brain, it is known as either a subdural or epidural hematoma depending on whether it is below or above the dura (i.e. the thick membrane covering the brain).
Cerebral hemorrhage symptoms are dependent upon the location and severity of the hemorrhage and the amount of tissue affected. Headache, weakness, nausea, vomiting, seizures and a loss of consciousness are some of the typical cerebral hemorrhage symptoms. Generally, a radiology examination is necessary, such as a CT scan or MRI, to highlight various features and the location of brain bleeding. In some cases, a spinal tap may be required to confirm evidence of bleeding or to rule out other brain problems.
Treatment for bleeding in the brain depends on the location, cause and extent of the cerebral hemorrhage. Cerebral hemorrhage surgery may be necessary to alleviate swelling and prevent further bleeding. Medications may also be administered to relieve symptoms of seizures, pain and swelling, or to reverse a coagulopathy.
For more information about cerebral hemorrhage treatment, contact the office of Dr. John D. Lipani at (609)-890-3400 today!
