When an artery in your brain bursts, blood leaks out into the brain itself. This is called an intracerebral bleed (or intracerebral hemorrhage). It is most often caused by high blood pressure.

There are several ways this kind of stroke can cause brain damage. The bleeding into the brain can kill brain cells. The blood vessel which has burst can start to spasm, cutting off the blood supply. A large amount of bleeding can cause swelling in the brain. Bleeding can also block other blood vessels that would usually supply the brain with blood.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.