Understanding Seizures: Is My 16-Year-Old Experiencing Epilepsy?
Epilepsy Concerns Hello doctor, my son, who is 16 years old, suddenly experienced upper body tremors last week. He can have over 60 episodes in a day, and during severe instances, he is unable to hold onto objects, leading to drops and even a fall once. However, each episode last...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Max, Regarding your son, it may be advisable to consider juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. This condition manifests with myoclonic jerks and generalized tonic-clonic seizures in otherwise normally developing adolescents or adults. Myoclonic jerks often occur in the hands, sh...[Read More] Understanding Seizures: Is My 16-Year-Old Experiencing Epilepsy?
Understanding Photosensitive Epilepsy and Its Impact on Neurotic Patients
Photosensitive epilepsy and individuals with neurosis? I have read many educational articles about photosensitive epilepsy, but I still have some confusion. Specifically, I would like to know if individuals with neurosis may also experience discomfort, such as neck twitching and ...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Hello: Photosensitive epilepsy typically occurs during childhood and is rare in adults. Your symptoms may warrant consideration of cervical myofascial issues or sleep disorders. It is recommended that you visit a neurology outpatient clinic for further evaluation and follow-up. T...[Read More] Understanding Photosensitive Epilepsy and Its Impact on Neurotic Patients
Understanding Photosensitive Epilepsy: Symptoms and What to Avoid
Alas... this is inappropriate behavior, please do not imitate it? Two days ago, I decided to test whether I have photosensitive epilepsy by watching several videos with intense flashing lights. Unexpectedly, I experienced two situations: the first was that during the viewing, my ...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Hello Mr. Jose: You mentioned that "photosensitive epilepsy" typically involves generalized brain discharges, which can lead to temporary loss of consciousness. This is usually observed by family members. Your symptoms should first consider abnormalities in the muscle f...[Read More] Understanding Photosensitive Epilepsy: Symptoms and What to Avoid
Understanding Memory Fog: Causes and Concerns Beyond Epilepsy
I have been feeling distracted these past few days? I have been experiencing episodes of absent-mindedness lately, and after these episodes, my memory feels very fuzzy. I researched this situation and found that it could be associated with absence seizures, which makes me quite a...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello Jerry: The symptoms mentioned may be indicative of epilepsy. It is recommended to consult a neurologist for further evaluation to confirm the diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Memory Fog: Causes and Concerns Beyond Epilepsy
Understanding Tooth and Temple Pain: Is It Related to Neck Nerve Compression?
Pain in the upper and lower right teeth, as well as pain in the temples? This afternoon, I suddenly experienced pain in my upper and lower right teeth, which later extended to my right temple. Last year, I visited a neurosurgeon due to neck pain, and an MRI revealed a herniated d...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Ze, You mentioned, "Is the toothache along with the pain in the temples possibly due to cervical nerve compression?" This symptom indeed warrants consideration of high cervical nerve root compression, specifically involving the first to third cervical vertebra...[Read More] Understanding Tooth and Temple Pain: Is It Related to Neck Nerve Compression?
Rehabilitation Strategies for Left Brain Hemorrhage Recovery
Rehabilitation after left hemisphere hemorrhage? Hello Dr. Jiang, My mother (approximately 65 years old) suddenly experienced dizziness on January 16, followed by a gradual loss of consciousness and almost no sensation in her right limbs. She was taken to the emergency room whe...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Chang, You mentioned that "the nurse said my mother's condition is not suitable for hyperbaric oxygen therapy." (1) The following diseases or symptoms are contraindications for treatment: 1. Epilepsy 2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 3....[Read More] Rehabilitation Strategies for Left Brain Hemorrhage Recovery
Understanding Morning Seizures: Epilepsy or Other Neurological Issues?
Morning seizures Hello, I would like to ask about my wife, who is 30 years old and had two generalized seizures while sleeping half a month ago, leading to a diagnosis of epilepsy. Currently, all tests show no abnormalities. She is taking medication in the morning and evening, bu...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Hello Mr. Huang, You mentioned that "my wife experiences abdominal tightness and cramping between 6:00 and 8:00 in the morning." This is not a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis. In addition to cerebral discharges, we should consider lumbar nerve root compression. I wou...[Read More] Understanding Morning Seizures: Epilepsy or Other Neurological Issues?
Understanding Morning Seizures: Epilepsy or Other Neurological Issues?
Morning seizures Hello, I would like to ask about my wife, who is 30 years old and had two generalized seizures while sleeping half a month ago, leading to a diagnosis of epilepsy. Currently, all tests show no abnormalities. She has been taking medication in the morning and eveni...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Hello Mr. Huang, You mentioned that "my wife experiences abdominal tightness and cramping between 6:00 and 8:00 in the morning." This is not a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis. It resembles symptoms of localized cortical discharges. May I ask if this occurs before tak...[Read More] Understanding Morning Seizures: Epilepsy or Other Neurological Issues?
Understanding Right Middle Finger Spasms: Causes and Relief Strategies
Spasms of the right middle finger? Hello, I have nearly ten years of history with epilepsy, primarily characterized by seizures affecting the upper body and above the neck (on the right side). About three months ago, I began experiencing twitching on the right side of my face (in...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: The cause of the spasms in your right middle finger may not necessarily be related to epilepsy. It is recommended that you visit a neurology clinic for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Right Middle Finger Spasms: Causes and Relief Strategies
Am I Experiencing Epilepsy or a Brain Tumor? Understanding My Symptoms
Do I have epilepsy? Could I possibly have a brain tumor? Hello Doctor, I have two questions to ask you, regarding headaches and epilepsy. Most importantly, I am very worried that I might have a brain tumor or something similar, and I hope to receive some advice. Regarding epile...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello, Student C: The symptoms mentioned may be related to sleep apnea. It is recommended to visit a neurologist for a detailed examination to determine the underlying cause.[Read More] Am I Experiencing Epilepsy or a Brain Tumor? Understanding My Symptoms
Understanding the Differences Between Keppra and Trileptal for Epilepsy Treatment
Differences in medications? Recently, I experienced seizures and other symptoms related to epilepsy, so I went to the hospital where I was prescribed Keppra 500mg to take once in the morning and once at night. During my follow-up appointment today, the doctor prescribed a differe...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: You mentioned that you went to the hospital and were prescribed Keppra 500mg twice daily, and during your follow-up visit, the doctor prescribed another medication, Trileptal 300mg twice daily. Generally, the control of epilepsy is achieved with one medication reachi...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Keppra and Trileptal for Epilepsy Treatment
Is My Recent Muscle Spasm a Sign of Epilepsy Relapse?
Previously, it was epilepsy caused by encephalitis? Hello, I had encephalitis in 2017 that led to epilepsy, and I was hospitalized and treated with medication until around 2020. I have been regularly following up with my doctor and have had no seizures, gradually tapering off the...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello Duoduo: Whether the above symptoms indicate a recurrence of epilepsy depends on whether they are similar to the previous epileptic symptoms. It is recommended to visit a neurologist for an EEG, which can provide a better assessment.[Read More] Is My Recent Muscle Spasm a Sign of Epilepsy Relapse?
Understanding Alcohol-Related Neurological Symptoms: Stroke or Intoxication?
Inability to move the limbs and facial twitching after consuming alcohol? After consuming less than a small beer glass of whiskey, the individual experienced inability to move their limbs (hands making an "OK" gesture but unable to move), facial twitching, weakness in t...
Dr. Peng Shiwei Reply:
Hello Mr. Huang, based on your symptoms, both epilepsy and transient ischemic attack are possible. The likelihood of alcohol intoxication is relatively low. If you have any concerns, please come to the hospital for a thorough evaluation by a physician. It is also advisable for yo...[Read More] Understanding Alcohol-Related Neurological Symptoms: Stroke or Intoxication?
Can Epilepsy Patients Safely Undergo Cosmetic Surgery?
Can patients with epilepsy undergo cosmetic surgery? Hello doctor, I have epilepsy, and my condition has been well-controlled with medication for about five years without any seizures. I am considering undergoing cosmetic surgery for under-eye bags, which requires local anesthesi...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello CHU: It is recommended to discuss medication and assess risks with your physician before proceeding with surgery.[Read More] Can Epilepsy Patients Safely Undergo Cosmetic Surgery?
Managing Epilepsy in Autistic Children: Medication Concerns and Solutions
Antiepileptic drugs Dear Dr. Tsai, I have a child with autism who suffers from epilepsy. He has been taking Apo-Divalproex (250mg & 500mg) for two years and seven months without any recurrence of seizures. However, since starting this medication, he has changed significantly...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Yeh: It is recommended to discuss medication with the prescribing physician and not to discontinue the medication on your own.[Read More] Managing Epilepsy in Autistic Children: Medication Concerns and Solutions
Sudden Dizziness and Weakness: Could It Be Epilepsy?
Dizziness and weakness in the limbs? Hello doctor, I suddenly felt dizzy and weak all over while walking, and I lost control of my body, almost losing consciousness. During this episode, I felt twitching at the junction of my neck and head (but there was no twitching in my limbs)...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello: The symptoms mentioned are not indicative of epilepsy; they are suspected to be related to orthostatic hypotension. It is recommended to visit a neurology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Sudden Dizziness and Weakness: Could It Be Epilepsy?
Severe Abdominal Pain Leading to Fainting: When to Seek Medical Help?
Abdominal pain leading to fainting? Sudden severe abdominal pain, accompanied by blurred vision, complete darkness, and a feeling of weakness leading to fainting, followed by waking up in a cold sweat and persistent nausea, could indicate a serious medical condition. Although you...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Miss Tzu-Yan, You mentioned experiencing symptoms such as "pain, blurred vision, complete darkness in front of me, feeling weak and collapsing to the ground, and waking up a few seconds later." Your symptoms may suggest reflex syncope. This can occur due to intens...[Read More] Severe Abdominal Pain Leading to Fainting: When to Seek Medical Help?
Managing Seizures During Antiepileptic Drug Transition: What to Expect
Seizures during the transition period of antiepileptic drug replacement? I have epilepsy, with no history of brain injury or family history of the condition, and the cause is unknown. I have been treated with Depakote for nearly two years. Recently, my liver enzymes have shown an...
Dr. Cai Zongzhang Reply:
Hello: There are many types of seizure patterns in epilepsy. It is recommended to record the frequency and types of seizures, and discuss appropriate adjustments with your physician during follow-up visits.[Read More] Managing Seizures During Antiepileptic Drug Transition: What to Expect
How Long After Starting Epilepsy Medication Will Seizure Frequency Decrease?
How long after starting medication for epilepsy does it typically take to reduce the frequency of seizures? Hello Doctor: My family member is currently 54 years old and began experiencing absence seizures about four to five years ago. In the past one to two years, they have had a...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Ms. Ling, You mentioned that "my family member started treatment last year and currently takes one dose of Levetiracetam in the morning and evening. They have been taking Zolpidem at night due to sleep issues for about six months, but still experience one to two comple...[Read More] How Long After Starting Epilepsy Medication Will Seizure Frequency Decrease?
Understanding Exploding Head Syndrome: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Sleep issues In the past week, when lying down to sleep, I have experienced a sensation in my brain that feels like a mild electric shock. After this sensation, I can change positions or fall asleep normally. However, this has occurred about 2-3 times over the week. Yesterday, I ...
Dr. Jiang Junyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Shen, You mentioned that "when lying down to sleep, it feels like my brain has been lightly shocked by an electric current..." This may indicate a sleep disorder. Exploding Head Syndrome has two main causes: one is unstable brain waves or transitions in brain ...[Read More] Understanding Exploding Head Syndrome: Symptoms and When to Seek Help