What is an Intracranial Hemorrhage?

An intracranial hemorrhage is an incident of significant bleeding inside the skull, either within the brain or in the surrounding membranes called meninges. A hemorrhage can occur with acute head trauma, abnormal blood clots, or disorders that affect blood, chemical, or electrical activities in the brain. Blood loss in the skull is a medical emergency, and doctors usually need to administer specialized medications or conduct surgery in an attempt to stop the problem. Intracranial hemorrhages often lead to life-threatening complications without immediate treatment.

A large number of intracranial hemorrhages are the result of direct trauma, as can occur with automobile accidents and sports injuries. Trauma can damage the skull and underlying brain tissue, possibly creating an open, bleeding lesion. Injuries can also leave the brain susceptible to infections and inflammation that can further worsen bleeding.

A non-traumatic intracranial hemorrhage that appears in childhood is usually caused by a genetic or inherited condition, such as a blood disease or congenital cranial deformity. Older children, adolescents, and adults may experience a hemorrhage due to high blood pressure, clotting, infections, drug reactions, or alcohol abuse. Regardless of the cause, an intracranial hemorrhage can lead to a number of deadly conditions. Many people suffer from strokes, seizures, migraines, and neurological impairments after experiencing a hemorrhage. When pressure builds up in the skull due to excess blood, it is possible for the brain to become herniated, or forced out of its usual shape and location.

A person who suffers a head injury or experiences any abnormal lapses in neurological functioning should be brought to an emergency room as soon as possible. Once a patient is admitted into the emergency room with a suspected intracranial hemorrhage, health-care professionals will typically check cognitive and sensory abilities and ask about symptoms. A neurologist can conduct a computerized tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging tests to get a clear picture of the inner skull and brain. He or she carefully looks for signs of tissue damage, swelling, and bleeding to determine the presence of an intracranial hemorrhage.

After making a diagnosis, the neurologist can determine the best way to treat the patient. For children and patients with relatively mild symptoms, medications called antihypertensive drugs may be administered to reduce blood pressure and help stop intracranial bleeding. Most cases of intracranial hemorrhaging, however, require surgical care to prevent permanent brain damage and potentially fatal complications. A team of neurological surgeons cut into the skull, drain excess blood and fluid, remove clots, and seal lesions. Patients usually need to remain hospitalized for several days or weeks following treatment to ensure operations are successful.