Hemorrhage is bleeding from a damaged blood vessel. Many things can cause hemorrhage inside and outside the body. Types of hemorrhage range from minor, such as a bruise, to major, such as bleeding in the brain. If you can’t stop external bleeding or suspect internal bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.
Hemorrhage is loss of blood from a damaged blood vessel. The bleeding can be inside or outside the body, and blood loss can be minor or major.
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There are many possible causes of hemorrhage, including:
Depending on the location or cause, a hemorrhage might be called:
The way a hemorrhage makes you feel varies a lot, depending on where it is and how severe it is. For example, with a bruise, you may have only mild discomfort compared to head injury. Another example: Hemorrhage in the brain may cause headache, but in the chest it may cause trouble breathing.
Serious blood loss may make you feel:
If severe hemorrhage is left untreated, you may experience:
Treatment for hemorrhage depends on:
Sometimes, external bleeding can be stopped with first aid:
Seek immediate medical attention for external bleeding that won’t stop, or for suspected internal bleeding. It should be treated in an emergency room.
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else is bleeding externally or may be bleeding internally and:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Hemorrhage is loss of blood from a damaged blood vessel. It can be minor such as a bruise or major such as damage to an internal organ. External bleeding is visible and may be easier to notice, but be aware of the signs of internal bleeding. Seek medical attention if you are unsure.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 07/14/2021.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy