Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Neurological Help
What is the problem? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have been experiencing dizziness for almost a month now. The symptom is that my forehead feels very hot, as if I have a fever, even when I sleep. However, I do not have a fever. I feel lethargic every day. My blood pressure is normal, and...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Sometimes, insufficient sleep or chronic stress and fatigue can lead to muscle tension in the head and neck, resulting in similar symptoms. However, when seeking medical attention, the physician will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if there are other causes unrelated t...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Neurological Help
Understanding Arm Pain: Causes and Remedies for Nerve Issues
The arm may feel numb, swollen, painful, and also warm? Hello, Dr. Gao. I have some questions I would like to ask you. My mother has developed a severe case of frozen shoulder due to frequently lifting heavy objects in the past. Recently, she has been experiencing numbness, swell...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Swelling symptoms can be concerning, as they may indicate inflammation. If there is also localized redness, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist to rule out soft tissue inflammation or infection, such as cellulitis or rheumatic issues. Treatment should be d...[Read More] Understanding Arm Pain: Causes and Remedies for Nerve Issues
Should I Get a Chest MRI for Left Chest Itching?
Continued inquiry about itching in the left chest? Thank you, Dr. Gao, for your response. I would like to follow up on the itching in my left chest. Would it be more appropriate to arrange a chest MRI? Thank you, Ms. Lin.
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Of course, diseases can sometimes present with various atypical symptoms. Abnormal sensations caused by lesions on the chest wall or within the thoracic cavity, and even referred pain, are possible, although they are not commonly considered. Therefore, the physician will not prev...[Read More] Should I Get a Chest MRI for Left Chest Itching?
Understanding Morning Headaches: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Headache issues? Hello, Doctor. Since the end of 2014, I have been experiencing headaches that usually start in the morning upon waking or wake me up in the morning. The headaches are accompanied by nausea, and after vomiting, I feel somewhat better. The headaches can last for 3 ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Common headaches typically do not wake a person from sleep. If you experience headaches that do wake you up in the middle of the night, it is advisable to see a doctor promptly. Headaches that begin in the early morning, are accompanied by vomiting, and cause a feeling of pressur...[Read More] Understanding Morning Headaches: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Neck Pain with Headaches: When to See a Neurologist?
Neck pain accompanied by headache? My girlfriend initially experienced sudden pain in her upper body along with chest tightness. Later, she developed sharp pain in the back of her neck accompanied by headaches. Despite visiting the hospital outpatient department, no clear diagnos...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
If the rheumatology department confirms that there are no related issues, consideration should be given to neurological causes such as cervical spinal cord lesions, whether they are due to inflammation, hemorrhage, intervertebral disc problems, or other reasons. The on-site physi...[Read More] Neck Pain with Headaches: When to See a Neurologist?
Understanding Left-Sided Headaches and Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Left-sided occipital headache, sharp pain in the left ear, and pain on the left side when swallowing? Last Monday, I suddenly experienced pain on the left side of my head. I can't pinpoint the exact location of the pain; even pressing on it or pulling my hair causes discomfo...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Initially, it may present as simple neuropathic pain, but if accompanied by clusters of red rashes and small blisters, it could indicate shingles. However, with the presence of oropharyngeal pain and symptoms starting in the left side of the limbs, the situation appears to be mor...[Read More] Understanding Left-Sided Headaches and Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent Left Chest Itching: Should I Seek a Second Opinion?
Itchy sensation on the left chest? Hello, Doctor Gao: Following my previous inquiry, my neurologist arranged an MRI for my left upper arm to neck, which came back normal. However, I still have itching in my left chest that hasn't improved. Should the correct imaging have bee...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
I am more concerned about the neck and arm area, but the examinations have shown no issues. I can't think of any specific diseases that might be the cause; it could be a condition that current diagnostic tools cannot detect, or it might be due to some rare reason. Consulting...[Read More] Persistent Left Chest Itching: Should I Seek a Second Opinion?
Understanding Foot Pain: When to Seek Neurology Help for Your Father
Foot pain issues? My father is 56 years old, but recently he has been complaining of severe foot pain, to the point where he limps when walking. In the past two to three weeks, the pain has become so intense that he can't stand or walk. He has visited two or three major hosp...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
To assess the location of the foot pain and whether there are accompanying neurological deficits such as numbness or weakness, we can then infer the causes of the pain and weakness for targeted treatment. It may be advisable to consult a neurologist, who will further investigate ...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain: When to Seek Neurology Help for Your Father
Understanding Concussions: Symptoms, Recovery, and Academic Challenges
About concussions? I experienced a depressive episode and intentionally hit my head against the car door. After nearly an hour, I lost consciousness for a few minutes. The next day, I woke up with symptoms including headache, dizziness, nausea, and occasional difficulty focusing ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Recovery from a concussion requires some time, and it is advisable to rest during this period, avoiding stress and excessive mental exertion. Attention issues and dizziness while walking should improve gradually as the nervous system heals itself.[Read More] Understanding Concussions: Symptoms, Recovery, and Academic Challenges
Post-Car Accident: Managing Dizziness and Nausea Symptoms
One month after the car accident, experiencing loss of balance, dizziness, nausea, and a feeling of wanting to vomit? On January 10th, my boyfriend was in a car accident with significant impact, but fortunately, he was well-protected by his clothing and only sustained external in...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The likelihood of inner ear issues is the highest, and otolaryngologists are more specialized in this area. However, if dizziness and vomiting are accompanied by symptoms of neurological deficits such as double vision, slurred speech, delayed cognitive response, or weakness in th...[Read More] Post-Car Accident: Managing Dizziness and Nausea Symptoms
Understanding Transient Ischemic Attack Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Occasionally, when I get up from a chair to walk, the left side of my limbs feels tight, making it difficult to exert force and walk normally. However, after a short while, it returns to normal. After researching online, I feel that it resembles sy...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Based on your symptom description, it resembles a transient dystonia, which is classified as a movement disorder, rather than a minor stroke. It is recommended to visit a neurology clinic for further evaluation by a physician to confirm the actual cause and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Transient Ischemic Attack Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Hand Muscle Pain and Finger Mobility Issues
Palm muscle pain with inability to bring fingers together? Hello Doctor, I am currently a member of the drill team, but I recently noticed that when I hold the rifle, I experience significant pain in the muscle below my right thumb (this wasn't an issue before). To be precis...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
If you have recently started exercising or have been training more frequently, it is common to experience inflammation and soreness in the muscles of the palm. You can alleviate this by doing some massage, applying heat, and resting, which should lead to self-healing. However, we...[Read More] Understanding Hand Muscle Pain and Finger Mobility Issues
Can Alzheimer's Medications Treat Other Dementia Types?
Alzheimer's disease medication issues? Hello, doctor: May I ask if the dementia medications covered by health insurance, donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Reminyl), are all aimed at treating cognitive function? Are these medications only for patien...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
According to the pharmacological effects, as you mentioned, there is significant assistance for cognitive function. Other types of dementia may be mixed types, and some may also include Alzheimer's-related brain changes; in such cases, there should be a certain degree of eff...[Read More] Can Alzheimer's Medications Treat Other Dementia Types?
Understanding Occipital Pain: Causes and Solutions for Eye Blinking Discomfort
Headache issues If you experience pain in the back of your head when blinking, it could be related to several issues. One possibility is tension headaches, which can be triggered by muscle strain or stress. Another potential cause could be a migraine, which may present with pain ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Blinking can trigger headaches in many types of headaches. It is essential to be cautious of problematic headaches, such as those caused by central nervous system infections or increased intracranial pressure, which require immediate attention. If your headache persists after the...[Read More] Understanding Occipital Pain: Causes and Solutions for Eye Blinking Discomfort
Understanding Facial Asymmetry While Speaking: Causes and Concerns
Facial asymmetry while speaking? Hello, doctor. I have never paid attention to the asymmetry of my mouth when I speak, but I recently noticed that my cheeks are symmetrical when I smile. However, when I try to lift both sides of my face, the left side feels tighter than the right...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
If there has been asymmetry in photos from a long time ago, it is possible that it has been this way since childhood. Many people are born with slight asymmetry in their facial features, which is not necessarily indicative of a medical condition. However, if the asymmetry was not...[Read More] Understanding Facial Asymmetry While Speaking: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Numbness and Twitches: Insights on Bell's Palsy and Neurological Symptoms
Numbness in the hands and feet? Hello, doctor. I was recently diagnosed with Bell's palsy, but later, when discussing it with friends and family, I realized that I sometimes experience involuntary facial twitching. Could this lead to a difference in diagnosis? Additionally, ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Seizures and loss of consciousness must be evaluated by a physician to identify and control the underlying cause. The numbness, facial twitching, and even potential weakness following a seizure can be improved. As for Bell's palsy, it can only be confirmed by the physician w...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Twitches: Insights on Bell's Palsy and Neurological Symptoms
Effective Rehabilitation Strategies After Hemorrhagic Stroke
Stroke rehabilitation Hello! I would like to ask a question. About two months ago, I had a hemorrhagic stroke, but I was sent to the hospital in time, so the impact wasn't severe. The symptoms affected my right side, including my right hand, right foot, and slightly my speec...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
In conjunction with the physician's treatment plan, engage in more physical activity in daily life, increase communication, and strive to train yourself to accomplish tasks independently.[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Strategies After Hemorrhagic Stroke
Understanding Neck Pain and Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Neck pain and stiffness? I often experience soreness and stiffness in my neck, mostly on the left side. The neck pain is intermittent and not particularly worse in the morning. There is a loud "cracking" sound when I move my neck, and when it feels very stiff, I have to...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Neck pain and stiffness are generally due to muscle fatigue or inflammation in the cervical region. If accompanied by cracking or popping sounds, it is more likely to originate from the cervical joints. It is advisable to consult an orthopedic or neurosurgical specialist regardin...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain and Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Anterior Shin Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Pressing on the skin over the anterior tibia causes a sinking sensation along with soreness and a burning or tingling feeling? Hello Doctor: I have a soft area on the skin at the front of my lower leg, about a palm's width above the ankle, with a diameter of approximately 5 ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Diseases in this area can range from benign inflammation to masses and even malignant lesions. They generally fall under the specialties of dermatology and orthopedics. I would recommend that you first consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Anterior Shin Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Alternatives to Alzheimer's Medication: Options When Insurance Denies Coverage
Dementia degeneration Your mother has been using the medication (Aicardi) for dementia for some time. This time, the health insurance did not approve the medication. It is recommended to either purchase it out of pocket or consider discontinuing it, or if there are other alternat...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
There are other dementia medications that can be considered. Since Aiyuxin has not been effective, it indicates that the dementia symptoms have continued to worsen to a certain extent after using this medication. You may want to discuss with your attending physician whether your ...[Read More] Alternatives to Alzheimer's Medication: Options When Insurance Denies Coverage