Head Injury from a Mailbox: When to Seek Emergency Care
Head trauma I accidentally bumped my head against the mailbox. I felt a bit dizzy at first, but it got better after a while. Later, I felt somewhat sleepy. Should I go to the emergency room?
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If you observe no significant issues for 3 days, you may continue to stay at home. However, if you experience persistent symptoms of headache and dizziness that do not improve, you will need to undergo an examination. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your well-being.[Read More] Head Injury from a Mailbox: When to Seek Emergency Care
Post-Surgery Back Pain: Soft vs. Rigid Support for Lumbar Fusion
Lumbar spine traditional surgery 5-1 fusion brace? Dear Doctor, I had a lumbar fusion at the L5-S1 level and underwent surgery 20 days ago. However, my doctor only advised me to wear a soft lumbar brace. I experience daily back pain. Would wearing a rigid brace provide better p...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Protecting the wound does not require a special hard brace. The pain after lumbar spine surgery may be due to insufficient muscle strength. It is advisable to discuss this with your attending physician. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Post-Surgery Back Pain: Soft vs. Rigid Support for Lumbar Fusion
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 Neurosurgery
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
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 Neurosurgery
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?
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 Neurosurgery
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
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 Neurosurgery
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?
How Long Does Subdural Hematoma Take to Liquefy After Injury?
How long does it take for a hematoma from a subdural hemorrhage to liquefy? My father is 79 years old. On July 6th, he was hit by a car while riding his motorcycle and was pinned under his own motorcycle. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet and was conscious at the scene, suffer...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Generally, a hematoma from a subdural hemorrhage will liquefy and be absorbed in about three weeks, after which a follow-up CT scan can be performed in the outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] How Long Does Subdural Hematoma Take to Liquefy After Injury?
Understanding Head Injuries: Signs of Concussion and Bleeding Risks
Head trauma Hello doctor, three days ago I fell off my bike and landed on my side. At the time, it happened so suddenly that I don't remember the force of the impact on my head, but I did feel a bit dizzy. After being taken to the emergency room, the dizziness subsided and m...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Delayed intracranial hemorrhage caused by head trauma is more likely to occur within the first three days, while the likelihood decreases after three days. However, symptoms of a concussion may persist for up to a month. Therefore, medication can be taken to manage symptoms, and ...[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Signs of Concussion and Bleeding Risks
Understanding Tarlov Cysts: Urinary Issues and Neurological Concerns
There is a 2 cm Tarlov cyst at the S1-S2 level? Three years ago, I fell and landed on my buttocks, after which I discovered a cyst measuring 2.x cm at the S1-S2 level of my spine. I consulted a doctor who diagnosed it as a Tarlov cyst, and I have been under observation since then...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
A 2 cm tumor on the vertebra may cause symptoms if there is pressure, leading to the need for hospitalization for examination and evaluation. If there are issues with bowel or bladder function, it is recommended to visit an outpatient clinic to assess the possibility of surgery.[Read More] Understanding Tarlov Cysts: Urinary Issues and Neurological Concerns
Understanding the Risks of Multiple Concussions and Cognitive Decline
Multiple concussions Hello doctor, I have had four concussions in the past two years (the most recent one was in early August), and I am still experiencing issues with attention, judgment, and memory. I am currently taking Micronutrients. Can you tell me if my risk of developing ...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: After a head injury, there is a higher likelihood of future brain atrophy. If you experience issues with attention, judgment, or memory after discharge, we recommend that you follow up with the Neurosurgery outpatient clinic at our hospital. The Ministry of Health and Welf...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Multiple Concussions and Cognitive Decline
Self-Inflicted Head Injury: Risks and Recovery Tips
I hit myself hard near the temple? Hello, Doctor. On August 14, I hit my right temple (near the temple) very hard out of anger. At that time, I did not experience vomiting, loss of consciousness, or swelling. I immediately applied ice for three days. I am quite anxious, and this ...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: There may be symptoms of a mild concussion. If there is right-sided brain hemorrhage, the likelihood is higher within three days; after three days, the probability decreases. If symptoms worsen, a consultation with a neurosurgeon is recommended for evaluation.[Read More] Self-Inflicted Head Injury: Risks and Recovery Tips
Understanding Cervical Spine Issues: Displacement vs. Bone Spurs
Is the cervical spine displacement severe or is it bone spurs? Hello Doctor, last month I experienced numbness in my neck and went to a large hospital for an examination. The doctor reviewed my X-rays and mentioned that my cervical vertebrae C3/C4 and C4/C5 have some significant ...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: There is a certain degree of degeneration observed in the imaging. It is recommended to arrange an MRI examination at the outpatient clinic. The outpatient evaluation is provided by the Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, which cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Issues: Displacement vs. Bone Spurs
Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Slip and Fall
Slipped in the bathroom and hit the right side of the head, at the location corresponding to the ear? I slipped while coming down from a half-meter high step because one of my feet was too wet, and I hit the right side of my head. At the time, I was fully conscious and aware that...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Your symptoms suggest a concussion, including headaches and dizziness. It is important to rest and avoid staying up late or staring at screens for extended periods. If you experience excessive sleepiness, weakness, or persistent vomiting, you need to complete your outpatie...[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Slip and Fall
Concerns About Uneven Skull: When to See a Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist?
Head issues? Hello Dr. Zhao, if there is a suspected bone issue in the head (approximately on the sides of the frontal bone, with a feeling of irregularities upon palpation), and it is not painful, I am a bit concerned because my friends and family do not have this condition. I a...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: You can visit our neurosurgery department for a direct assessment. The Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.[Read More] Concerns About Uneven Skull: When to See a Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist?
Concerns About Uneven Skull: When to See a Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist?
Head issues Hello Dr. Zhao, if there is a suspected bone issue in the head (approximately on the sides of the frontal bone, with a feeling of irregularities upon palpation), and it is not painful, I am concerned because my friends and family do not have this condition. I am unsur...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: You can visit our neurosurgery department for a direct assessment. The Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Concerns About Uneven Skull: When to See a Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist?
Understanding Concussion Syndrome: Causes, Diagnosis, and Objectivity in Assessment
Regarding post-concussion syndrome? Excuse me, may I ask if a concussion syndrome only occurs when there is trauma to the head, or are there other causes as well? Additionally, what are the criteria for diagnosing concussion syndrome? If a car accident victim insists on experienc...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: A concussion is defined as a change in mental status due to an injury that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. If there is a clinical history of head trauma with symptoms such as headache, it can be classified as concussion syndrome. This may result from a blow t...[Read More] Understanding Concussion Syndrome: Causes, Diagnosis, and Objectivity in Assessment
Understanding Concussion Symptoms and When to Seek Neurological Care
Concussion status On the afternoon of the 25th, while I was out, I collapsed at a convenience store. According to witnesses, I hit my head, but I regained consciousness after about three minutes during my first fainting episode. I was initially alert, but then fainted again and t...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: The occurrence of fainting may be a manifestation of epilepsy. If the EEG results are inconclusive, you may consider consulting a neurosurgeon. It is advisable to undergo relevant examinations, including a CT scan, for further evaluation. The Changhua Hospital of the Minis...[Read More] Understanding Concussion Symptoms and When to Seek Neurological Care
Understanding the Lockman Decompression System After Disc Surgery
Postoperative Lumbar Decompression System Hello Doctor: Due to long-term heavy lifting, I have a herniated disc at L3/L4 that is compressing the nerve, so I underwent a discectomy. The doctor recommended the installation of a Lockman spinal decompression system (out-of-pocket exp...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: For professional inquiries, please visit the Neurosurgery outpatient clinic at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, for assistance.[Read More] Understanding the Lockman Decompression System After Disc Surgery
Understanding Coma Recovery After Traumatic Brain Injury from Car Accidents
Coma due to traumatic brain injury from a car accident? Hello, Director. My father is 50 years old and was hit by a car running a red light on August 19 this year. He was hospitalized due to excessive blood loss, hypoxia, and shock, with multiple fractures and injuries. After two...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. The process of hyperbaric oxygen therapy has shown benefits for brain injury patients, and they can be evaluated at our hyperbaric oxygen center. 2. The writing of the diagnosis will depend on the situation; if neurological symptoms remain stable after six months, an as...[Read More] Understanding Coma Recovery After Traumatic Brain Injury from Car Accidents
Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Surgery, Recovery, and Risks Explained
Pituitary tumor Recently, during a medical examination at the hospital, a pituitary tumor approximately 1.7 cm in size was discovered. Blood tests showed prolactin levels at 29 and growth hormone levels at 79, with other results being normal. I would like to ask if, in general, c...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
In Taiwan, this technique is very advanced, allowing for the removal of tumors through the nasal cavity using an endoscope. Navigation guidance significantly enhances the precision of the surgery. After a successful operation, hormone levels can return to normal ranges. A small n...[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Surgery, Recovery, and Risks Explained