Cerebellar hemorrhage occurs when bleeding takes place in the cerebellum, usually from a stroke. Cerebellar hemorrhage result from the same causes as other intracerebral hemorrhages. Long-standing hypertension with degenerative changes in the vessel walls and subsequent rupture is believed to be the most common cause of a typical cerebellar hemorrhage. Hemorrhage into tumor, blood dyscrasias, amyloid angiopathy, arteriovenous malformations, trauma, and sympathomimetic abuse are less common causes of cerebellar hemorrhage. Cerebellar hemorrhage may occur at any age, depending on the etiology. Generally, incidence increases with age; most hypertensive hemorrhages occur in patients older than 50 years. Rupture of a vascular malformation may be the most common cause in children. The cerebellum plays a major role in maintaining balance.

Causes of Cerebellar hemorrhage

The main causes of Cerebellar hemorrhage:

  • Sympathomimetic drug use.
  • Hemorrhage into tumor.
  • Cocaine.
  • Blood thinners such as Coumadin.
  • Heavy alcohol consumption.
  • High Blood Pressure.
  • Brain Aneurysm.

Signs and symptoms of Cerebellar hemorrhage

Signs and symptoms often experienced with Cerebellar hemorrhage are:

  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Headaches in lower back of skull.
  • Swallowing difficulties.
  • Balance problems with walking.
  • Dizziness.
  • Closed eyelid.
  • Vertigo ("spinning sensation").

Treatment of Cerebellar hemorrhage

Some most common treatmet of Cerebellar hemorrhage:

  • Mannitol or similar agent to lower the pressure in the brain.
  • In symptomatic bradycardia reflecting Cushing response, atropine may be beneficial if hypotension is present.
  • Mannitol 1 g/kg may be considered preoperatively in patients with tight posterior fossa.
  • Surgical care has been the mainstay of therapy for cerebellar hemorrhage, although some patients with small hematomas may be treated successfully without surgery.

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