Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery Strokes

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 8 min read
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Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery strokes, often referred to as HPCA strokes, are a type of stroke that occur when a blood vessel in the posterior cerebral artery ruptures, leading to bleeding in the brain. In this article, we will simplify the complex terminology and provide...

For severe symptoms, danger signs, pregnancy, child illness, or sudden worsening, seek urgent medical care.

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Article Summary

Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery strokes, often referred to as HPCA strokes, are a type of stroke that occur when a blood vessel in the posterior cerebral artery ruptures, leading to bleeding in the brain. In this article, we will simplify the complex terminology and provide easy-to-understand information about HPCA strokes, including their types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, medications, and surgery options. Types of HPCA...

Key Takeaways

  • This article explains Common Causes of HPCA Strokes: in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Common Symptoms of HPCA Strokes: in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Diagnostic Tests for HPCA Strokes: in simple medical language.
Educational health guideWritten for patient understanding and clinical awareness.
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Emergency safety firstUrgent warning signs are highlighted below.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice

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  • Chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or sudden severe weakness.
  • Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, speech trouble, confusion, or vision change.
  • A rapidly worsening condition or symptoms that feel life-threatening.
1

Emergency now

Use emergency care for severe, sudden, rapidly worsening, or life-threatening symptoms.

2

See a doctor

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Use this article to understand possible causes, tests, treatment options, prevention, and questions to ask your clinician.

Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery strokes, often referred to as HPCA strokes, are a type of stroke that occur when a blood vessel in the posterior cerebral artery ruptures, leading to bleeding in the brain. In this article, we will simplify the complex terminology and provide easy-to-understand information about HPCA strokes, including their types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, medications, and surgery options.

Types of HPCA Strokes:

There are two primary types of HPCA strokes:

  1. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): This type of HPCA stroke occurs when there is bleeding in the space between the brain and the surrounding tissues.
  2. Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH): ICH happens when there is bleeding directly into the brain tissue.

Common Causes of HPCA Strokes:

  1. High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension is a significant risk factor.
  2. Aneurysms: Weak spots in blood vessels can burst.
  3. Blood Thinning Medications: Overuse of blood thinners may increase the risk.
  4. Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal blood vessel connections.
  5. Trauma: Head injuries can lead to bleeding.
  6. Smoking: Increases the risk of vessel damage.
  7. Alcohol Abuse: Can raise blood pressure and weaken blood vessels.
  8. Cocaine or Stimulant Use: May trigger blood vessel rupture.
  9. Brain Tumors: Tumors can disrupt blood vessels.
  10. Genetic Factors: Family history may play a role.
  11. Age: Older adults are more susceptible.
  12. Gender: Men are slightly more at risk than women.
  13. Race/Ethnicity: Some groups have a higher risk.
  14. Obesity: Increases the likelihood of hypertension.
  15. insulin is low or not working well. সহজ বাংলা: রক্তে চিনি বেশি থাকার রোগ।" data-rx-term="diabetes" data-rx-definition="Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar stays too high because insulin is low or not working well. সহজ বাংলা: রক্তে চিনি বেশি থাকার রোগ।">Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes can harm blood vessels.
  16. High Cholesterol: Can lead to atherosclerosis.
  17. Infections: Certain infections can affect blood vessels.
  18. Blood Disorders: Conditions like hemophilia.
  19. Liver Disease: Can impair blood clotting.
  20. Cocaine or Stimulant Use: May trigger blood vessel rupture.

Common Symptoms of HPCA Strokes:

Recognizing the signs of an HPCA stroke is crucial for prompt treatment. Common symptoms include:

  1. Severe pain in the head or upper neck. সহজ বাংলা: মাথাব্যথা।" data-rx-term="headache" data-rx-definition="Headache means pain in the head or upper neck. সহজ বাংলা: মাথাব্যথা।">Headache: A sudden, intense headache is a common early sign.
  2. Vision Changes: Blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one eye.
  3. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach.
  4. Weakness: Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg.
  5. Speech Problems: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
  6. Coordination Issues: Trouble with balance and coordination.
  7. Confusion: Disorientation or difficulty understanding.
  8. Seizures: Some people may experience seizures.
  9. Loss of Consciousness: Fainting or blacking out.
  10. Neck Stiffness: Neck pain and stiffness may occur.
  11. Sensory Changes: Tingling or unusual sensations.
  12. Memory Problems: Difficulty remembering or thinking clearly.
  13. Mood Changes: Sudden mood swings or irritability.
  14. Swallowing Problems: Trouble swallowing.
  15. Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
  16. Fatigue: Sudden and extreme tiredness.
  17. Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to light.
  18. Sensitivity to Noise: Increased sensitivity to noise.
  19. Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there.
  20. Loss of Consciousness: Unconsciousness or coma in severe cases.

Diagnostic Tests for HPCA Strokes:

Doctors use various tests to diagnose HPCA strokes, including:

  1. CT Scan: A specialized X-ray to visualize bleeding in the brain.
  2. MRI Scan: Provides detailed images of the brain.
  3. Cerebral Angiography: An X-ray of blood vessels with contrast dye.
  4. Lumbar Puncture: Collects cerebrospinal fluid for analysis.
  5. Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measures brain activity.
  6. Blood Tests: Check for clotting disorders or infections.
  7. Echocardiogram: Examines the heart’s function.
  8. Doppler Ultrasound: Evaluates blood flow in the arteries.
  9. Neurological Exam: Assesses motor and sensory functions.
  10. Visual Field Test: Checks for vision problems.
  11. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): Screens for cognitive deficits.
  12. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS): Measures consciousness level.
  13. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks for anemia or infection.
  14. Carotid Ultrasound: Evaluates blood flow in neck arteries.
  15. Chest X-ray: Examines the lungs and heart.
  16. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Monitors heart rhythm.
  17. Holter Monitor: Records continuous ECG over 24-48 hours.
  18. Transcranial Doppler (TCD): Measures blood flow in brain arteries.
  19. PET Scan: Provides metabolic information about brain tissue.
  20. SPECT Scan: Shows blood flow patterns in the brain.

Treatment Options for HPCA Strokes:

Treatment for HPCA strokes depends on the severity and type of stroke. Here are various options:

  1. Medications: a. Blood Pressure Control: Medications to lower high blood pressure. b. Clotting Medications: Antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs. c. Pain Relief: For headaches and discomfort. d. Seizure Medications: To prevent seizures. e. Antiemetics: To relieve nausea and vomiting.
  2. Surgery: a. Aneurysm Clipping: Surgical repair of a ruptured aneurysm. b. AVM Removal: Surgery to remove arteriovenous malformations. c. Hematoma Evacuation: Removal of the blood clot from the brain. d. Craniotomy: Opening the skull to access and treat the bleeding. e. Ventricular Drainage: Placement of a tube to drain excess fluid.
  3. Minimally Invasive Procedures: a. Endovascular Coiling: Aneurysm repair through a catheter. b. Embolization: Blocking blood flow to an AVM or aneurysm. c. Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Precise radiation treatment.
  4. Rehabilitation: a. Physical Therapy: To regain strength and mobility. b. Occupational Therapy: Helps with daily tasks. c. Speech Therapy: Improves communication skills. d. Cognitive Therapy: Addresses memory and thinking difficulties.
  5. Supportive Care: a. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Care: For critically ill patients. b. Ventilation Support: If breathing is affected. c. Nutrition Support: Ensures proper nourishment. d. Blood Pressure Monitoring: Frequent checks and adjustments.
  6. Lifestyle Changes: a. Smoking Cessation: Quit smoking to reduce risk factors. b. Alcohol Moderation: Limit alcohol intake. c. Healthy Diet: Adopt a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet. d. Regular Exercise: Improve overall health. e. Stress Reduction: Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

Medications for HPCA Strokes:

Medications play a crucial role in managing HPCA strokes. Here are 20 commonly prescribed drugs:

  1. Aspirin: An antiplatelet drug that reduces clot formation.
  2. Clopidogrel (Plavix): Another antiplatelet medication.
  3. Warfarin (Coumadin): An anticoagulant to prevent blood clots.
  4. Heparin: Used to thin the blood and prevent clotting.
  5. Nimodipine: Helps prevent vasospasm after SAH.
  6. Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): Control seizures, e.g., phenytoin (Dilantin).
  7. Osmotic Diuretics: Mannitol to reduce brain swelling.
  8. Analgesics: Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen.
  9. Antiemetics: Drugs like ondansetron (Zofran) for nausea.
  10. Antihypertensive Medications: Lower high blood pressure.
  11. Statins: To manage cholesterol levels.
  12. Anticoagulants: Prevent blood clots, e.g., rivaroxaban (Xarelto).
  13. Antipyretics: Reduce fever, e.g., ibuprofen.
  14. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Prevent stomach ulcers.
  15. Neurostimulants: Promote alertness and wakefulness.
  16. Sedatives: Calm and relax patients if needed.
  17. Antidepressants: Address mood disorders.
  18. Beta-Blockers: Manage heart rate and blood pressure.
  19. Calcium Channel Blockers: Control blood pressure.
  20. Anti-anxiety Medications: Reduce anxiety and restlessness.

Surgical Options for HPCA Strokes:

In some cases, surgery is necessary to treat HPCA strokes. Here are 10 surgical procedures:

  1. Aneurysm Clipping: Securing a ruptured aneurysm with a metal clip.
  2. AVM Removal: Surgical removal of arteriovenous malformations.
  3. Hematoma Evacuation: Removing the blood clot from the brain.
  4. Craniotomy: Opening the skull to access and treat the bleeding.
  5. Ventricular Drainage: Placing a tube to drain excess fluid.
  6. Endovascular Coiling: Repairing aneurysms through a catheter.
  7. Embolization: Blocking blood flow to AVMs or aneurysms.
  8. Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Precise radiation treatment.
  9. Decompressive Craniectomy: Removing part of the skull to reduce pressure.
  10. Shunt Placement: Diverting excess cerebrospinal fluid.

Conclusion:

Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery strokes can be life-threatening, but understanding the types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, medications, and surgery options is crucial for early detection and effective management. If you suspect someone is experiencing symptoms of an HPCA stroke, seek immediate medical attention to improve their chances of a successful recovery.

 

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

 

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Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

Which doctor may help?

Start with a registered doctor or the nearest qualified health center.

What to tell the doctor

  • Write when the problem started and how it changed.
  • Bring old prescriptions, investigation reports, and current medicines.
  • Write allergies, pregnancy status, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, and major past illnesses.
  • Bring one family member if the patient is weak, elderly, confused, or a child.

Questions to ask

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which danger signs mean I should go to hospital quickly?
  • Which tests are necessary now, and which can wait?
  • How should I take medicines safely and what side effects should I watch for?
  • When should I come for follow-up?

Tests to discuss

  • Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation
  • Basic physical examination by a clinician
  • CBC, urine test, blood sugar, or imaging only when clinically needed

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not use antibiotics, steroid tablets/injections, or strong painkillers without proper medical advice.
  • Do not hide pregnancy, kidney disease, ulcer, allergy, or blood thinner use.
  • Do not delay emergency care when danger signs are present.

Medicine safety and first-aid guide

This section is for patient education only. It does not replace a doctor, pharmacist, or emergency care.

Safe first steps

  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden bending, and prolonged bed rest.
  • Use comfortable posture and gentle movement as tolerated.
  • Discuss physiotherapy, X-ray, or MRI only when clinically needed.

OTC medicine safety

  • For mild back pain, pain-relief medicine may be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
  • Avoid repeated painkiller use if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
  • Do not use steroid tablets or injections casually for quick relief.
  • Do not delay emergency care because of home remedies.

Get urgent help if

  • Back pain with leg weakness, numbness around private area, loss of urine/stool control, fever, cancer history, or major injury needs urgent care.
Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

For rural patients and family caregivers

Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Orthopedic / spine specialist, physical medicine doctor, or qualified clinician
Tests to discuss with doctor
  • Neurological examination for leg power, sensation, reflexes, and straight leg raise
  • X-ray only if injury, deformity, long-lasting pain, or doctor suspects bone problem
  • MRI discussion if severe nerve symptoms, weakness, bladder/bowel problem, or persistent symptoms
Questions to ask
  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
  • Which tests are really needed now?
  • Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?
  • Is physiotherapy, posture correction, or activity modification needed?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Safe pathway to proper treatment

Care roadmap for: Hemorrhagic Posterior Cerebral Artery Strokes

Use this simple roadmap to understand the next safe steps. It is educational and does not replace examination by a doctor.

Go to emergency care if you notice:
  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
  • Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, major injury, or severe dehydration
Doctor / service to discuss: Qualified healthcare provider; specialist depends on symptoms and examination.
  1. Step 1

    Check danger signs first

    If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.

  2. Step 2

    Record the symptom story

    Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.

  3. Step 3

    Visit a qualified clinician

    A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.

  4. Step 4

    Do only useful tests

    Do tests after clinical assessment. Avoid unnecessary tests, random antibiotics, or repeated medicines without diagnosis.

  5. Step 5

    Follow up and return early if worse

    If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips
  • Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
  • Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
  • Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

RX Patient Help

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Write your symptom story. A health professional or site editor can review it before any answer is prepared. This box is not for emergency care.

Emergency first: Severe chest pain, breathing trouble, unconsciousness, stroke signs, severe injury, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent local medical care now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this article a replacement for a doctor?

No. It is educational content only. Patients should consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.

When should I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, rapidly worsening condition, breathing difficulty, severe pain, neurological changes, or any emergency warning sign.

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