An intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) occurs when blood suddenly bursts into brain tissue, causing damage to the brain, which may present symptoms similar to that of a stroke. Lobar intracerebral hemorrhages occur in the cerebral lobes outside of the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia are a structure located in the cerebrum (the largest part of the brain) that aids in motor control, procedural learning, eye movement, and cognitive function.
Stroke-like symptoms usually appear suddenly during ICH, causing symptoms that include headache, weakness, confusion, and paralysis, particularly on one side of the body. The buildup of blood puts pressure on the brain and interferes with its oxygen supply. This can quickly cause brain and nerve damage.
This is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. ICH is not as common as ischemic stroke (when a blood vessel is blocked by a clot), but is more serious.
Treatment generally involves surgery to repair damaged blood vessels. Depending on the location of the hemorrhage and the amount of damage, long-term treatment may include physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Most people have some level of permanent disability.
Symptoms