Patient Education Hemorrhagic Stroke: Understanding and Recovering | Page 9

Arteriovenous Malformation
Vasospasm
Smaller aneurysms may not cause symptoms , but as it enlarges it may cause issues such as headaches , pain , weakness , vision , or speech problems .

Arteriovenous Malformation

An arteriovenous malformation ( AVM ) is an abnormal collection of blood vessels where blood from arteries flows directly into the drainage veins . They appear as a “ tangle ” of vessels . As these abnormal vessels enlarge and the pressure within them increases , they are at a greater risk of rupturing .

Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage ( ICH ) occurs when blood leaks directly into the brain tissue . This can be caused by high blood pressure , trauma , cocaine and other street drugs , excessive use of alcohol , and certain medications , such as blood thinners .
Intracerebral hemorrhage
Vein
Draining vein
AVM
Ruptured cerebral artery
Artery

Vasospasm

Feeding arteries
Vasospasm is a narrowing of a blood vessel that can occur after an SAH . The blood that has collected at the base of the brain irritates a blood vessel and causes it to contract or spasm . This can result in not enough blood being supplied to an area of the brain , which can cause the brain cells to die . Measures are taken to prevent vasospasm . Special monitoring devices and Doppler imaging are used to detect vasospasm , which is most likely to occur 5 to 8 days after the SAH . If vasospasm does occur , it is treated with medications and IV fluid management .
Symptoms of ICH :
� Partial or total loss of consciousness
� Vomiting or severe nausea at the time of other symptoms
� Sudden numbness , tingling , and / or weakness of the face , arm , and / or leg — usually on one side
� Sudden severe headache
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