Intracranial Haemorrhage

Overview

An intracranial haemorrhage refers to bleeding within the skull. It can occur in different areas of the brain or between its protective layers, often following trauma, stroke, or vascular abnormalities. Recovery may be complex, requiring long-term physical, cognitive and emotional rehabilitation.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we specialise in consultant-led inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults recovering from brain bleeds, including subdural and epidural haematomas.

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Types of Intracranial Haemorrhage

Intracranial bleeds can be categorised by their location. The most common types we support rehabilitation for include:

Subdural Haematoma

Bleeding between the dura mater (outer brain lining) and the brain. It often occurs after falls or head trauma, especially in older adults.

Epidural Haematoma

Bleeding between the skull and the dura mater, typically after a skull fracture. This type can expand quickly and may require urgent surgical intervention.

Other types we may support post-acute phase:

• Intraparenchymal haemorrhage – bleeding within brain tissue
• Subarachnoid haemorrhage – bleeding around the brain in the subarachnoid space
• Intracerebral haemorrhage – often linked to high blood pressure or vascular anomalies

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Symptoms of Intracranial Haemorrhage

Symptoms can vary depending on the bleed’s location and severity. Common issues include:

Neurological and Physical Effects

• Headache
• Confusion or altered consciousness
• Weakness or paralysis (typically one side of the body)
• Visual disturbances
• Difficulty with speech or understanding language
• Balance and coordination problems
• Seizures

Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms

• Memory or concentration issues
• Mood swings or irritability
• Anxiety or depression
• Changes in behaviour or personality
• Reduced problem-solving ability

Some individuals may enter a coma or minimally conscious state before stabilising. Long-term symptoms can persist even after the bleed is surgically managed.

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What Causes Intracranial Bleeding?

Common causes include:

• Falls or head trauma
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Blood-thinning medication
• Brain aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations
• Blood clotting disorders
• Alcohol misuse
• Brain tumours

Timely treatment reduces acute risk, but rehabilitation is often required to regain independence and functional ability.

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Diagnosis and Acute Management

Intracranial haemorrhages are typically diagnosed through CT or MRI scans. Emergency treatment may involve:

• Surgical evacuation of haematoma
• Blood pressure control
• Seizure prevention
• Intensive care monitoring

Once stable, individuals may be discharged for specialist rehabilitation, particularly when impairments affect movement, speech, thinking or emotional regulation.

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Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

We provide tailored, multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation for adults recovering from traumatic or spontaneous brain haemorrhage.

Key rehabilitation services include:

Physiotherapy

• Mobility and balance retraining
• Strength and coordination exercises
• Gait re-education
• Falls prevention

Occupational Therapy

• Activities of daily living (dressing, cooking, toileting)
• Fatigue and energy conservation strategies
• Visual and spatial rehabilitation
• Cognitive therapy for memory, planning and attention

Neuropsychology

• Support for mood, adjustment and behaviour
• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Family education and coping strategies

Speech and Language Therapy

• Language and speech retraining
• Cognitive-communication support
• Swallowing assessments and therapy

Specialist Nursing

• 24/7 neurological observation and medication support
• Nutrition and continence care
• Seizure management (if required)

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Who We Support

We welcome adult patients (18+) who:

• Are recovering from subdural, epidural or intracranial haemorrhage
• Have completed acute treatment or surgery and are now medically stable
• Need coordinated rehabilitation to regain function
• Have complex physical, cognitive or behavioural needs

To discuss a placement or referral, call 01296 678800 or enquire online.

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Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• Decades of experience in brain injury and stroke rehabilitation
• Multidisciplinary therapy up to 7 days a week
• Consultant-led care with access to neuropsychology and nursing
• Quiet, private setting designed for recovery
• Family involvement and discharge support included