Description Bleeding into the b...
Description
Bleeding into the brain. It often occurs in people with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Other causes include trauma, aneurysms, blood clotting disorders, or brain tumors (either primary or from metastasis).
Symptoms
Headache, nausea, vomiting, change in alertness (level of consciousness), vision changes, sensation changes, difficulty speaking, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, difficulty writing or reading, movement changes, incoordination, loss of balance, seizure.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies, such as CT scan or MRI of the brain, are typically performed to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan
Other Specific Tests: PT (prothrombin time), PTT (partial thromboplastin time), cerebral angiogram, Head CTA
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies, such as CT scan or MRI of the brain, are typically performed to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan
Other Specific Tests: PT (prothrombin time), PTT (partial thromboplastin time), cerebral angiogram, Head CTA
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Treatment
Treatment depends on the location, cause, and extent of the hemorrhage. Surgery may be necessary and is more likely if the bleeding is in the cerebellum. The cause of the bleeding must be reversed, if possible, to prevent recurrence and may include: surgery to repair or remove structures causing the bleed (such as a cerebral aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation) and/or medicines to control blood pressure and bleeding problems. A diuretic (mannitol) may be administered to reduce brain swelling, and anticonvulsants are sometimes given to prevent seizures.