Understanding Sleep Jerks: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options
Involuntary body jerks just before falling asleep? Hello, doctor. Last time I consulted you about the issue of involuntary movements while sleeping, and you suggested that I visit a hospital. I went to a neurology clinic, where they performed a wakefulness EEG, and the results we...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The symptoms are brief, and the most likely cause of the involuntary movements related to sleep is indeed related to sleep disorders. However, as you mentioned epilepsy, it can also manifest during sleep. The general diagnosis of epilepsy relies on electroencephalography (EEG), w...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Jerks: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options
Persistent Dizziness and Balance Issues: Seeking Solutions for Neurological Symptoms
Feeling of foot drop, imbalance, and abnormal sensations in the brain? Hello doctors, three years ago I experienced a bout of dizziness that caused me to fall and lose consciousness, resulting in a chin injury that required seven stitches at the hospital. However, a month later, ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Symptoms can be side effects of medication or may indicate a sensory disturbance. A detailed neurological examination by a neurologist should be conducted to assess this function. If abnormalities are found, further tests may be arranged to evaluate the spinal nerves or periphera...[Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Balance Issues: Seeking Solutions for Neurological Symptoms
Understanding Night Sweats and Confusion: When to Seek Neurology Help
Night sweats? I experience severe night sweats while sleeping, accompanied by episodes of confusion. For instance, at around 4 or 5 AM today, I found myself lying on the edge of my husband's bed in front of a fan. When my husband asked me what was wrong, I simply replied, &q...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
A rare type of abnormal brain discharge known as autonomic seizures differs from typical convulsions characterized by limb twitching and frothing at the mouth. It affects the body's autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as palpitations, goosebumps, sweating, and...[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats and Confusion: When to Seek Neurology Help
Uncontrollable Noises While Falling Asleep: A Neurological Concern?
When falling asleep, one may unconsciously make sounds? Hello, Doctor Gao: This past week, as I lie in bed and gradually transition from a waking state to falling asleep, I involuntarily make a "hmm" sound from my throat. Just when I'm about to fall asleep, this so...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
This phenomenon is likely similar to the involuntary movements seen in periodic limb movement disorder or restless legs syndrome that some people experience before falling asleep. It is classified as a type of sleep disorder. For a definitive diagnosis and to determine the underl...[Read More] Uncontrollable Noises While Falling Asleep: A Neurological Concern?
Understanding Tinnitus: Questions About Acoustic Neuroma and Diagnosis
Tinnitus Consultation I have been experiencing high-frequency tinnitus for over a year. Initially, I went to a large hospital for a pure tone audiometry test, which came back normal with no abnormalities. The ENT specialist advised me to relax and did not prescribe any medication...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Acoustic neuromas can indeed cause tinnitus, and otolaryngologists and neurologists have a more sensitive test than CT and MRI, which is the brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP). If you still have concerns, these specialists should be able to address your worries using thi...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: Questions About Acoustic Neuroma and Diagnosis
Can Ginkgo Biloba Help Epilepsy Patients? A Neurology Perspective
Epilepsy patients taking ginkgo products? Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from absence seizures since I was 8 years old, which has lasted for 31 years. It is not hereditary, and I have not experienced any head trauma; the cause of my condition remains unknown. I have tried m...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Ginkgo biloba extract can improve attention, memory, and dizziness, particularly in relation to peripheral circulation disorders. After brain electrical activity, there is a period of decreased blood flow, which may coincide with the improvement you experience after taking your m...[Read More] Can Ginkgo Biloba Help Epilepsy Patients? A Neurology Perspective
Understanding Uncomfortable Reactions After Medication in Neurology
Adverse reactions after taking medication? Hello, Doctor: Is it normal to experience discomfort after taking medication? Symptoms and background: 1. At the beginning of January, I was hit on the left side of my body by a motorcycle, resulting in a concussion, accompanied by dizzi...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Suanli tablets can improve microcirculation in nerves and tissues; however, side effects may include palpitations and facial flushing. The medication taken before bedtime is a muscle relaxant, and its side effects may include drowsiness. The pain and sensitivity in your molars ma...[Read More] Understanding Uncomfortable Reactions After Medication in Neurology
Persistent Dizziness: Navigating Neurological Symptoms and Specialist Care
Dizzy and lightheaded? Hello, Doctor (I apologize for the lengthy message). I experienced stomach discomfort on New Year's Eve. After two days, I drank some enzymes and felt better. During a family gathering on the sixth day of the new year, I consumed two bottles of red win...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
After experiencing dizziness for such a long time without improvement, and following a CT scan, as well as trying various medications related to dizziness without effect, it is challenging to find a reasonable explanation, especially if blood pressure is normal and brainstem nerv...[Read More] Persistent Dizziness: Navigating Neurological Symptoms and Specialist Care
Why Does My Scalp and Cheek Feel Numb After Sleeping?
Numbness in the scalp at the back of the head? Hello Doctor: I took a nap on the sofa in the living room this afternoon (with my head resting on the armrest, which was somewhat hard), and when I woke up, I felt a tingling sensation in my scalp at the back of my head and in my che...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Pressure on the nerves in the back of the head can be explained, but it's not as easy for the cheeks because the facial nerves are the trigeminal nerves, which emerge from the foramina of the upper jaw, maxilla, and mandible. Pressure must be applied to the nerves after they...[Read More] Why Does My Scalp and Cheek Feel Numb After Sleeping?
Are High Levels of B12 and Folate Harmful? Insights on Homocysteinemia
Is high levels of B12 and folate harmful? I was previously diagnosed with homocysteinemia, and after consulting a doctor, I was advised to supplement with B12 on my own. Recently, during a health check-up, my B12 and folate levels were found to be above the standard range. Is thi...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Because B12, folate, and B6 are used to lower homocysteine levels, it is necessary to increase their concentrations, not just because of a deficiency. There have been no reports indicating that elevated levels of these vitamins harm health; however, high homocysteine levels can a...[Read More] Are High Levels of B12 and Folate Harmful? Insights on Homocysteinemia
Understanding Pulsating Pain Behind the Ear: Causes and Concerns
The occurrence of sharp pain behind the ear (at the bony prominence) may indicate several potential issues. It could be related to conditions such as mastoiditis, which is an infection of the mastoid bone, or it might be due to lymphadenopathy, where lymph nodes in that area beco...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
There is a large auricular nerve that originates from the cervical nerve roots. The sharp pain is generally indicative of neuropathic pain; however, it is important to check for any swollen lymph nodes near the ear or signs of inflammation and redness in the ear canal or mastoid ...[Read More] Understanding Pulsating Pain Behind the Ear: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Burning Sensation in the Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions
Burning sensation in the soles of the feet? Dear Dr. Gao, For the past two weeks, I have been experiencing a persistent or intermittent burning sensation in the sole, dorsum, and toes (especially the big toe) of my left foot. Sometimes, it is accompanied by a feeling of swelling...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The distribution of the sciatic nerve is located on the posterior side of the thigh and the lateral side of the calf, with involvement in the plantar and medial aspects of the foot. There is no rush to undergo an MRI; it is advisable to first visit a neurology clinic to gain a de...[Read More] Understanding Burning Sensation in the Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions
Uncontrollable Twitches: Understanding Neurological Issues After Surgery
Involuntary twitching of the limbs that feels like an electric shock may indicate a neurological issue. It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and diagnosis? I am a person with cerebral palsy, and I walk on my toes with my left foot. I have had surgeries ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
It is important to observe whether the twitching in the legs and the movements in the hands are brief or persist for several seconds before stopping, as this could indicate abnormal electrical discharges from the brain or symptoms related to cervical spine pathology. It is advisa...[Read More] Uncontrollable Twitches: Understanding Neurological Issues After Surgery
Understanding the Sensation of Water Droplets in the Legs: A Neurological Perspective
There is a sensation of water droplets in the legs? Hello Doctor: Recently, I occasionally feel a sensation in my lower limbs as if water is dripping on them (including my thighs, calves, and knees, but there is no pain). In the past two days, I have also noticed that my hands an...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
In the past, some patients have experienced similar abnormal sensory symptoms as described earlier, but generally, detailed examinations do not reveal any specific issues. As for the paralysis mentioned later, it is difficult to determine without considering the location and the ...[Read More] Understanding the Sensation of Water Droplets in the Legs: A Neurological Perspective
Can Quitting Late Nights Restore Memory and Energy Levels?
Can memory recovery occur by avoiding staying up late? Hello, doctor. I often stay up late. In the past, I didn't notice any difference when I woke up the next day; I felt just as energetic. However, recently I've been feeling that my memory is getting worse and my phys...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Memory and physical stamina are partly affected by staying up late and also by the gradual aging of the body. Therefore, if you restore a normal sleep schedule, both memory and physical stamina will improve. However, due to the internal and external factors of aging, it may not b...[Read More] Can Quitting Late Nights Restore Memory and Energy Levels?
Recognizing Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms and Home Care Tips
Parkinson's disease? Dear Doctor, My father is 66 years old and has been exhibiting the following behaviors since October of last year: 1. Weakness in the lower limbs, 2. Shuffling gait, 3. Forward stooping posture, 4. Sitting on the couch watching TV with a bent body, 5. S...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The symptoms are very consistent with Parkinson's disease, including rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremors, which are the three main symptoms. However, not everyone presents with the same symptoms. It is recommended to visit a hospital for an evaluation by a neurologist. Curre...[Read More] Recognizing Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms and Home Care Tips
Understanding Pain Below the Right Rib: Causes and Solutions
There is a stabbing pain located one centimeter below the right rib cage? Hello, Doctor Gao: I would like to ask about a pain I have been experiencing recently. There is a sharp pain located about one centimeter below my right rib cage (not in the bone area). The frequency of thi...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
This area contains the gallbladder, and inflammation or stones in the gallbladder can sometimes cause pain. If pressing on this area causes pain, it may be due to a muscle strain or inflammation near the costal cartilage. If pressure on this area makes it difficult to take a deep...[Read More] Understanding Pain Below the Right Rib: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained Body Pain: When to See a Neurologist?
Unexplained body aches? I have been feeling very down for the past few weeks and often experience insomnia. Recently, I have been feeling unexplained body aches, particularly pain near my left armpit close to my chest (not in the armpit itself) and pain in my elbow joint. My left...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The location of the pain you described closely corresponds to the sensory distribution of the second thoracic nerve on the skin. Please pay attention over the next few days for any rashes or small blisters appearing along this painful area. Feelings of depression combined with in...[Read More] Unexplained Body Pain: When to See a Neurologist?
Understanding Scalp Pain and Swelling: When to See a Specialist
Is there a painful lump under the scalp? Sometimes, I experience pain in the areas of my scalp where there are whirlpools, and after the pain occurs, the scalp becomes noticeably swollen. Even when there is no pain, there is still some swelling. I'm unsure if this could affe...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
To determine whether the swelling is persistent, if it remains swollen throughout the day and shows a trend of increasing in size each day, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly, preferably with a neurologist. If the swelling occurs and then subsides repeatedly, it ...[Read More] Understanding Scalp Pain and Swelling: When to See a Specialist
Can I Get a Prescription for Stroke Medications from a Local Doctor?
Prescription issues? Hello, Doctor Gao: I have a question regarding medication. My mother has a history of stroke and currently takes the following medications daily: Sultopride tablets, Candesartan, and Amlodipine. Since she needs to visit the hospital every three months to get ...
Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The purpose of a follow-up visit is to allow the original prescribing physician to monitor any existing health issues or changes after medication use. If the patient's condition is stable, it may be more convenient to have a similar prescription issued at a nearby hospital o...[Read More] Can I Get a Prescription for Stroke Medications from a Local Doctor?