Definition
Definition
Apoplexy is bleeding into a cavity or organ. There are various forms of apoplexy, including:
- Adrenal apoplexy—bleeding into adrenal glands
- Pituitary apoplexy—bleeding into the pituitary gland
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Causes
Causes
Apoplexy may be caused by:
- Tumor growth
- Hormonal imbalance
- Blood clot
- Acute illness
- Drastic changes in blood volume or blood pressure
- Blood clotting disorders
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your chance of apoplexy include:
- Hormonal insufficiency
- Previous surgery
- Bleeding disorders
- Injury
- Severe blood loss during childbirth—Sheehan’s syndrome
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Bluish skin color
- Fever
- Loss of vision
- Double vision
- Confusion
- Pain
- Fatigue
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
Imaging tests assess bodily structures. These may include:
Treatment
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Initial treatment will be done to stabilize you. After you have been stabilized, treatment options will be chosen based on the cause and location of your apoplexy. Options include:
- Medications—to correct hormonal imbalances
- Surgery—tumor removal if the tumor is the cause
Prevention
Prevention
There are no current guidelines to prevent apoplexy.
RESOURCES:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Institutes of Health Research http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca
References:
http://pituitary.ucla.edu/body.cfm?id=48
Accessed October 8, 2013.
Last Updated: 6/4/2014