What is a brain haemorrhage?

A brain haemorrhage is a type of stroke and normally results from rupture of a brain aneurysm (small bulge), resulting in bleeding around the brain.

Haemorrhages (also known as haemorrhagic strokes) can occur without warning although they can happen during physical activity, such as working out at the gym or having sex.

At Healthcare HCA UK, our neurosurgeons can prevent additional bleeds and reduce the risk of secondary brain damage.

Need to know

What are the symptoms of a brain haemorrhage?

Brain haemorrhages can be serious and fatal. As such, they're treated as medical emergencies. If you think you or someone you know might be having one, dial 999 immediately.

The main symptoms to look out for are:

a severe and sudden headache associated with feeling sick and vomiting
sensitivity to light, usually coupled with neck pain and stiffness
double or blurred vision
losing consciousness or uncontrollable shaking

How is a brain haemorrhage diagnosed?

If you've been admitted to hospital on suspicion of a brain haemorrhage, you'll most likely need to have a CT scan to check for signs of bleeding on the brain. If the diagnosis is confirmed, you will probably need further treatment in a specialist neurosurgery unit.

At HCA UK, our neurosurgeons are experts at treating haemorrhages and helping to reduce the risk of further brain damage.

Potential treatment options

If you've been admitted to hospital with a haemorrhage, you'll most likely be given medicine to prevent complications. Most aneurysms are now treated by radiologists using techniques known as coiling or stenting, but sometimes an open operation (a craniotomy) is necessary.

At HCA UK, our radiologists are experts at minimally invasive intervention and our neurosurgeons are expert in craniotomy.