Bleeding caused by hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertensive hemorrhage typically occurs in the blood vessels of the brain, is also known as cerebral hemorrhage, and can destroy the affected brain tissue. The severity of the hemorrhage and the symptoms it causes depend on the location and extent of the bleeding. Symptoms can come on suddenly or gradually. They include rapid loss of function on one side of the body, changes in vision, numbness, tingling, difficulty speaking or swallowing, difficulty reading or writing, loss of coordination or balance, seizure, headache, nausea or vomiting, and change in consciousness, such as extreme apathy or sleepiness. Surgery to remove the hematoma is performed if the damage is likely to cause death or major disability. Medications are also used to control blood pressure, reduce swelling in the brain, stop seizures, and reduce pain.