Understanding Memory Loss and Complications After Skull Fracture
Brain issues I would like to inquire about a relative of mine who has been hospitalized for over a month due to a skull fracture. This relative is experiencing strange symptoms; every time they wake up, their memory seems to be different. The first time they woke up, their memory...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: Head trauma causing intracranial hemorrhage may lead to short-term or long-term memory loss, or the possibility of short-term memory impairment due to contusions. If there is a need for surgery or if there are blood clots, the likelihood of needing a second surgery after a...[Read More] Understanding Memory Loss and Complications After Skull Fracture
Understanding Hydrocephalus: Key Questions About Treatment and Surgery
Hydrocephalus specialist Dear Doctor, My mother recently underwent a CT scan due to dementia, which unexpectedly revealed issues related to hydrocephalus. After a preliminary discussion with a neurosurgeon, we have decided to proceed with a shunt placement procedure. I would lik...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Lumbar abdominal drainage is considered a relatively new technique, and there are fewer physicians who are proficient in it, so it is advisable to inquire specifically.[Read More] Understanding Hydrocephalus: Key Questions About Treatment and Surgery
Understanding Swelling at the Back of the Head: When to See a Specialist
A swollen area? You should see a neurologist for a lump on the back of your head that feels like a collection of fluid and changes shape and position when pressed.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon first. Wishing you well from Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Swelling at the Back of the Head: When to See a Specialist
Should You Seek Medical Attention After a Head Injury?
Should you seek medical attention after hitting your head? Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I accidentally bumped the upper right side of my head while walking. At the time of the injury, I only felt pain at the impact site, with no swelling or bleeding, so I thought the situation w...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: After a head injury, if there are other discomfort symptoms, the patient can rest at home and undergo conservative treatment. If the patient experiences discomfort symptoms and conservative treatment is ineffective, they may seek medical attention at a hospital. Additional...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention After a Head Injury?
Post-Microdiscectomy: Persistent Numbness in Buttocks and Feet Explained
Numbness in the buttocks and soles of the feet after minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery? Dear Director Lai, Hello! My mother is 71 years old and has been experiencing worsening symptoms of numbness, pain, and limping in her legs due to L4-5 spondylolisthesis. She underwent ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: After decompression surgery, lower limb pain improves more quickly, while numbness takes longer to resolve (numbness: indicates that the nerves were already damaged prior to surgery). It is advisable to increase the dosage of vitamin B and medications for blood circulation...[Read More] Post-Microdiscectomy: Persistent Numbness in Buttocks and Feet Explained
Understanding Nerve Conduction Studies for Hand Injury Recovery
Hand injuries Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my father, who had a work-related accident where his right hand was caught in a machine, resulting in the amputation of all five fingers. He later underwent surgery to reattach some fingers; however, the middle finger was not ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The nerve conduction study room examines nerve function to identify any potential issues. Please consult the original surgeon for assistance.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Conduction Studies for Hand Injury Recovery
Post-Operative Concerns After Meningioma Surgery: When to Seek Help
Postoperative care for brain tumors? Hello Doctor, I underwent a craniotomy for a meningioma on October 14th of this year. The meningioma was approximately 1 cm in size and located near the right optic nerve, with a surgical incision about 24 cm long. From the time of surgery unt...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. If the headache worsens, please return for a follow-up consultation. 2. There is no specific mandatory position for craniotomy surgery.[Read More] Post-Operative Concerns After Meningioma Surgery: When to Seek Help
Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Coccygeal issues Hello Dr. Zhao: I have been experiencing significant pain at the very bottom of my coccyx when lying down or riding in a car, feeling as if it is protruding. It also hurts when I touch it, with a sensation similar to inflammation. This symptom has persisted for n...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: Coccyx pain may be caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia or fist. You can visit an orthopedic or neurosurgery clinic to see if a CT scan or nerve conduction study is necessary. The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lumbar Fractures: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Medical Consultation for Fracture of the Fifth Lumbar Vertebra I am experiencing unexplained pain and numbness in my thigh. An initial X-ray examination at the hospital suggests a fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra, and further MRI imaging is needed for confirmation. Since I a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: What you referred to as a "fracture of the fifth vertebra" is likely a "vertebral arch fracture." If that is the case, it is generally congenital for someone your age, but it may also be combined with acquired injuries, strain, or poor posture. If you a...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Fractures: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Post-COVID Nasal Swab Pain: Is Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage Possible?
I experienced severe discomfort after performing a COVID-19 rapid test on my left nostril, and my left nostril has been continuously running clear fluid? Hello Doctor: I underwent a COVID-19 rapid test at the hospital at 10 AM. When the swab was inserted into my left nostril, I e...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: It is less likely for a cotton swab to be inserted into the left nostril. However, if there is a persistent sensation of clear fluid flowing into the throat, along with symptoms such as headache and fever, it is advisable to visit a hospital for a blood test to check for a...[Read More] Post-COVID Nasal Swab Pain: Is Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage Possible?
Essential First Aid for Head Injuries After a Car Accident
Injuries resulting from a car accident? In the case of a car accident resulting in skull fractures, blurred vision with inability to focus, nasal discharge, and fever, the following medical procedures should be followed: 1. **Immediate Assessment**: Conduct a thorough neurologic...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed imaging reports and neurological examinations, it is not possible to provide an answer.[Read More] Essential First Aid for Head Injuries After a Car Accident
Understanding Scalp Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
The scalp feels tender to the touch? Last week, I felt pain on the lower left side of my scalp that felt similar to a pimple in size and sensation, but there was no visible redness or pimple; it was just painful to touch. It was slightly swollen and disappeared after 2 to 3 days,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it is suspected to be scalp folliculitis or something else. As you mentioned, it could be triggered by excessive stress. If it persists, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or a neurosurgeon for confirmation. Best wishes. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgeon.[Read More] Understanding Scalp Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Head Injury from Slip in Shower: When to Seek Medical Attention
Slipped and hit my head in the bathroom? Hello doctor, I accidentally slipped and hit the back left part of my head while showering on Monday. There is no obvious external injury, and I usually don't feel any pain, but it does hurt when I touch the area where I hit. I don&#x...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If there are no obvious neurological abnormalities and no headache or dizziness, observation can continue.[Read More] Head Injury from Slip in Shower: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Aneurysm Rupture and Recovery: Key Insights for Caregivers
Ruptured cerebral aneurysm with right-sided hematoma? Hello, my mother is 59 years old and has high blood pressure. She hasn't been taking her medication regularly. On Friday night, she suffered a ruptured aneurysm and was admitted to the hospital. Her blood pressure was low...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The questions you are asking are too complex; such inquiries require detailed neurological examinations and computed tomography imaging to provide answers.[Read More] Understanding Aneurysm Rupture and Recovery: Key Insights for Caregivers
Understanding the Recurrence Risk of Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
The recurrence rate of traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage? Hello Doctor, I accidentally hit my head while walking two weeks ago. At that moment, I felt fine, but four days later, I suddenly experienced severe pain in my head. I was taken to the emergency room and diagnosed with su...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
This is a traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, which usually can resolve on its own.[Read More] Understanding the Recurrence Risk of Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Understanding Screw Loosening After Cervical Spine Surgery: Risks and Options
Loosening of bone screws after cervical cone surgery? Two years ago, I underwent surgery for cervical osteophytes. A few days ago, I felt a sensation of something stuck in my throat, so I went for an X-ray and found that the tip of the first screw at the surgical site had fractur...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Surgery is theoretically possible and carries low risk, but it still requires assessment by an outpatient physician based on symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Screw Loosening After Cervical Spine Surgery: Risks and Options
Can Patients with Pituitary Tumors Safely Use Ritalin?
Pituitary adenoma and Ritalin? Hello, doctor. My child has a history of pituitary adenoma, specifically Cushing's syndrome, and has undergone surgical treatment. However, he has attention deficit disorder (ADD) and is currently taking medications such as Ritalin and Stratter...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
I am not a specialist in pituitary gland disorders; I recommend consulting directly with a clinic.[Read More] Can Patients with Pituitary Tumors Safely Use Ritalin?
Understanding the Longevity and Strength of Titanium Spinal Implants
Regarding the service life of titanium alloy cervical spine plates and screws? Hello, Director Lai. I underwent spinal instrumentation surgery nearly a year ago, during which three titanium alloy plates and six screws were implanted. From the X-ray images, the titanium alloy plat...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Titanium alloy has become the most advanced medical material that can be found, mass-produced, and is economically viable, while being compatible with human bone, durable, and strong. Titanium alloy plates and screws are not absorbed by the body. If the plates and screws s...[Read More] Understanding the Longevity and Strength of Titanium Spinal Implants
Post-Vaccine Numbness: Is It a Normal Side Effect?
Post-vaccination issues? Hello doctor, after receiving the BNT vaccine, I have experienced numbness in both hands (which has lasted for about a day). Is this a normal side effect?
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Unable to determine if it is a vaccine side effect![Read More] Post-Vaccine Numbness: Is It a Normal Side Effect?
Understanding Recovery Expectations After Cervical Spine Fracture Surgery
Expected Recovery After Cervical Spine Fracture Surgery Hello Doctor: A relative has suffered a cervical spine fracture due to diving, and the patient can currently only move their limbs slightly. Surgery has been scheduled, and the doctor's diagnosis is as follows: fracture...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed imaging reports and neurological examinations, it is not possible to provide an answer.[Read More] Understanding Recovery Expectations After Cervical Spine Fracture Surgery