Understanding Treatment Options for Cavernous Malformations in Children
Inquiry about cerebrovascular diseases? My son fainted suddenly two months ago. After being taken to the hospital, a CT scan and MRI revealed a congenital multiple cerebral vascular malformation with cavernous hemangiomas. The doctor prescribed him Lamotrigine. Since the last fai...
Dr. Gao Chunde Reply:
The most common neurological symptom of cerebral venous malformations is epilepsy. Some individuals may go their entire lives without symptoms and remain unaware of the condition. If seizures occur, abnormal electrical discharges in the brain can lead to loss of consciousness, ne...[Read More] Understanding Treatment Options for Cavernous Malformations in Children
Understanding Visual Disturbances: Causes and Solutions for Eye Pain and Flashes
Every day upon opening my eyes (before sitting up), I see numerous transparent dots (that do not move) and my vision keeps flashing? Both eyes have -200 degrees of myopia and -250 degrees of astigmatism. Since mid-April, I have experienced eye pain until the end of May, with no c...
Dr. Gao Chunde Reply:
Considering the recurrent occurrence of visual aura associated with migraines or occipital lobe epilepsy (recurrent discharges), it is recommended to promptly visit a neurologist for further EEG testing and pharmacological treatment. If necessary, brain imaging studies should als...[Read More] Understanding Visual Disturbances: Causes and Solutions for Eye Pain and Flashes
Understanding Uncontrollable Hand and Foot Tremors: Possible Causes and Solutions
Uncontrollable shaking of the hands and feet? Hello doctor, I would like to ask why my hands and feet keep shaking at irregular times throughout the day. My classmates say it might be due to the cold weather, but I don't feel cold or hot, and the shaking persists for about 5...
Dr. Gao Chunde Reply:
This symptom is still caused by unstable electrical discharges in the brain, which is due to incomplete control of epilepsy. It is necessary to return to the prescribing physician for epilepsy medication to inform them and make some adjustments to the medication. Once the brain...[Read More] Understanding Uncontrollable Hand and Foot Tremors: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Memory Loss in Elderly: When to See a Neurologist
If a mother is experiencing episodes of depression, she should consult a psychiatrist or a psychologist for evaluation and treatment? Hello Doctor, My mother is currently 82 years old. She is generally healthy but has high blood pressure that is controlled with medication. Last ...
Dr. Gao Chunde Reply:
Transient global amnesia (TGA) currently lacks a well-understood etiology. Potential causes include transient discharges similar to those seen in epilepsy, migraine-related brain storms, transient cerebral ischemia, jugular venous reflux, or other factors. It is essential to cons...[Read More] Understanding Memory Loss in Elderly: When to See a Neurologist
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:
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
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:
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 Unusual Head Sensations: When to Seek Neurological Evaluation
Recently, I've been feeling strange in my head, as if there is something stuck at the back of my brain? Hello, I have gallstones and have previously experienced vertigo, but I was taken off medication by my doctor five years ago because I hadn't had an episode in over t...
Dr. Huang Zixuan Reply:
If you are concerned about conditions related to epilepsy, it is recommended to undergo an electroencephalogram (EEG) at a hospital. Additionally, it is advisable to keep a record of the times when you experience these uncomfortable sensations, as having a complete record will he...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Head Sensations: When to Seek Neurological Evaluation
Can Genetic Epilepsy Be Treated? Understanding Neurological Solutions
Congenital epilepsy Is it possible to cure epilepsy if it is inherited?
Dr. Huang Zixuan Reply:
Hello; for any related inquiries, please consult at the outpatient department of Changhua Hospital. We care about you.[Read More] Can Genetic Epilepsy Be Treated? Understanding Neurological Solutions
Understanding Epilepsy: Treatment, Genetics, and Future Risks
Epilepsy Genetics If a patient has not experienced seizures for a long time and is considering stopping treatment, it is recommended to taper off the medication gradually. However, stopping medication does not necessarily mean that the epilepsy is cured. There is still a possibil...
Dr. Huang Zixuan Reply:
There is no correlation between the control of epilepsy and its genetics. For further inquiries regarding genetic issues related to epilepsy, please consult a medical institution.[Read More] Understanding Epilepsy: Treatment, Genetics, and Future Risks
Understanding Seizure Recurrence After a Five-Year Hiatus
Seizures in epilepsy If a person has experienced symptoms of epilepsy but has not had a seizure for about five years, is it possible for the epilepsy to recur?
Dr. Huang Zixuan Reply:
To assess the recurrence rate of epilepsy, it is essential to consider the type of seizures and the underlying causes. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the timing for discontinuing treatment and evaluating recurrence rates. Overall, most experts agree on the follow...[Read More] Understanding Seizure Recurrence After a Five-Year Hiatus
Understanding Genetic Risks of Epilepsy in Children from Affected Parents
Genetic Issues Related to Epilepsy If a person develops epilepsy due to an accident, will her child also have epilepsy?
Dr. Huang Zixuan Reply:
Genetic factors play a role in the occurrence of epilepsy; however, even if both parents have epilepsy, the likelihood of their children developing epilepsy is still significantly higher than not developing it. Additionally, if an individual develops epilepsy due to an accident, ...[Read More] Understanding Genetic Risks of Epilepsy in Children from Affected Parents
Exploring Epilepsy Surgery: Lifelong Medication or Alternative Treatments?
Epilepsy surgery Hello, Doctor. Ten years ago, I had a major seizure and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I underwent surgery and received radiation therapy twice. I experienced both generalized and focal seizures. Since starting medication, my seizures have been controlled, and...
Dr. Ye Boshou Reply:
Hello: 1. Surgery itself can potentially trigger seizures. Surgery is considered a treatment option when medication is poorly controlled. If medication can effectively manage the condition, why resort to surgery? Additionally, surgery does not guarantee that seizures will not occ...[Read More] Exploring Epilepsy Surgery: Lifelong Medication or Alternative Treatments?
Understanding Concussions and Seizure Risks After Head Injuries
Concussion and epilepsy..? I would like to ask a question. About six months ago, I hit the back of my head quite hard. At that moment, I felt a bit dizzy, but my consciousness was clear because I was still able to write the exam questions (the incident happened after class). I ju...
Dr. Lin Zijing Reply:
A concussion refers to a temporary loss of function in the brain following a blow to the head, which may manifest as disturbances in consciousness, vision, balance, and other functions. These changes are fully reversible, and clinical and imaging examinations typically do not rev...[Read More] Understanding Concussions and Seizure Risks After Head Injuries
Managing Side Effects of Epilepsy Medications: A Patient's Concerns
Adverse symptoms of epilepsy medications (Divalproex + Lamotrigine)? Hello, Doctor. I am a patient with epilepsy. When I first started treatment, I was prescribed one tablet of Depakote in the morning and evening. After about four months, I experienced dizziness and drowsiness. T...
Dr. Lin Zijing Reply:
The most common side effect of Keppra (levetiracetam) is drowsiness, while less common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, and agitation. Keppra has minimal sedative effects, and symptoms such as dizziness and unsteady gait typically occur only with excessive dosing. Therefo...[Read More] Managing Side Effects of Epilepsy Medications: A Patient's Concerns
Understanding Numbness in Hands and Feet After Epilepsy Recovery
Numbness in the hands and feet? I had a history of epilepsy in my childhood, but it has been cured. Recently, when I feel very happy, my hands and feet become numb. Is this related to my epilepsy?
Dr. Gao Chunde Reply:
There are various types of seizures, including sensory, motor, autonomic, and even psychological manifestations. It is difficult to completely rule out any connections between them. If you have concerns, you may visit a neurology clinic to have a specialist analyze and explain yo...[Read More] Understanding Numbness in Hands and Feet After Epilepsy Recovery
Understanding Visual Disturbances: Causes and Concerns in Neurology
The eyes are dazzled? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing strange visual disturbances. It's not like the dizziness associated with anemia; my mind is clear and normal, and I don't feel faint or see things moving. However, I do feel a slight heaviness behin...
Dr. Lin Zijing Reply:
Visual symptoms may have the following causes: 1. Ocular issues: retinal detachment, elevated intraocular pressure, corneal disease, etc. 2. Optic nerve problems: inflammation, multiple sclerosis, etc. 3. Cerebrovascular issues: transient ischemic attacks, migraines, etc. 4. Brai...[Read More] Understanding Visual Disturbances: Causes and Concerns in Neurology
Understanding Morning Fainting in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
A two-year-old child fainting upon waking up in the morning? Hello Dr. Lin: I have a three-year-old boy at home who experiences fainting spells or appears to have a blank stare with his eyes rolled back for about 20 to 30 minutes every morning after waking up. He also exhibits le...
Dr. Lin Zijing Reply:
Fainting accompanied by transient loss of consciousness, blank stare, eye rolling, and leg twitching should raise suspicion for either epilepsy or transient cerebral hypoperfusion. Generally, brain and cardiac evaluations are necessary. Brain assessments include electroencephalog...[Read More] Understanding Morning Fainting in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Unusual Symptoms in Epilepsy: Is It a New Seizure Type?
Epilepsy Hello, doctor. I have a history of epilepsy, experiencing both generalized and focal seizures (a sense of déjà vu). I am currently in a medication-free phase and have not had any seizures. However, recently I have been experiencing some unusual sensations and I am unsure...
Dr. Ye Boshou Reply:
Hello: Abnormal sensations may be a manifestation of a seizure, but further examination is necessary for confirmation. It is best to conduct an electroencephalogram (EEG) during the occurrence.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Symptoms in Epilepsy: Is It a New Seizure Type?
Understanding Sudden Fainting in Seniors: Stroke Risks and Precautions
An elderly person suddenly fainted? Dear Dr. Lin, Recently, my father suddenly fainted at home and hit his head on the floor, resulting in a large laceration. He received emergency suturing, and it has been confirmed that there is no intracranial hemorrhage. My father is a farme...
Dr. Lin Zijing Reply:
There are several reasons why elderly individuals may suddenly faint: 1. Neurogenic reflex: commonly occurs during urination, defecation, or severe coughing. 2. Cardiac issues: arrhythmias, valvular stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic dissection, pulmonary embolism. 3. ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Fainting in Seniors: Stroke Risks and Precautions
Understanding Muscle Cramps in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hello, Dr. Yeh! Dear Dr. Yeh: One night, my mother, my younger brother, and I went out for a run. My brother, who is in sixth grade, was riding his bicycle behind us. While my mother and I were exercising, my brother suddenly told me, "My left hand is cramping and it feels u...
Dr. Ye Boshou Reply:
Hello: Is it only in the hand? If it is just cramping twice and not significantly related to exercise, it may not be a concern. However, if it occurs frequently and is unrelated to physical activity, it is necessary to check for the possibility of focal epilepsy.[Read More] Understanding Muscle Cramps in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice