What characterizes a hemorrhagic stroke?

A hemorrhagic stroke is characterized by the bursting of a blood vessel in the brain, leading to bleeding within or around the brain tissue. This hemorrhage can result in increased pressure in the skull, damage to brain cells, and subsequent neurological deficits. The primary cause of a hemorrhagic stroke often includes conditions such as high blood pressure, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations, which can weaken blood vessel walls and make them susceptible to rupture.

In contrast to other types of strokes, such as ischemic strokes, which are caused by blockage resulting in insufficient blood flow, a hemorrhagic stroke is specifically associated with bleeding. This leads to different clinical manifestations and treatment approaches, often necessitating immediate medical intervention to control the bleeding and reduce intracranial pressure.