What occurs in an intracranial hemorrhagic stroke?

In an intracranial hemorrhagic stroke, a sudden rupture of an artery in the brain leads to bleeding within the skull. This type of stroke is characterized by the rapid loss of blood supply to affected areas of the brain due to the disruption of normal blood vessel integrity. When an artery ruptures, blood leaks out into the surrounding tissues, which can cause increased intracranial pressure, damage to brain cells, and potential loss of brain function.

The sudden nature of this event distinguishes it from other stroke types. Unlike a blockage in blood flow, hemorrhagic strokes are not primarily caused by clots but rather by the structural failure of blood vessels. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for immediate medical intervention, as complications can arise quickly from the ensuing pressure and inflammation caused by the bleeding.