What Is Hemorrhagic Stroke?

The brain needs a constant supply of blood to work. During a stroke, blood stops flowing to part of the brain.

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The brain needs a constant supply of blood to work well. During a stroke, blood stops flowing to part of the brain. The affected area is damaged. Its functions are harmed or even lost. Most strokes are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel that supplies the brain (ischemic stroke). They can also occur if a blood vessel in the brain breaks open (ruptures). This is a hemorrhagic stroke.

Front view of head and upper body showing carotid arteries and brain.

How a hemorrhagic stroke occurs

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. This lets blood spill into or build up in nearby brain tissue. This bleeding damages brain cells and increases pressure inside the skull, which can quickly become life-threatening.

Cross section of ruptured artery in brain causing hemorrhagic stroke.

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