Understanding Vegetative State: Insights and Hope for Recovery
Vegetative state? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. I have a friend who was in a car accident and suffered a brain injury. Currently, he is unable to take care of himself and relies on a feeding tube for nutrition. He cannot eat, walk, talk, or manage his bowel a...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
1. If it is possible to know that someone is calling him, although his IQ is like that of a child, he should not be considered a vegetative state. As for whether he will recover and to what extent, that is uncertain. 2. Regarding care issues, assistance can be sought from the s...[Read More] Understanding Vegetative State: Insights and Hope for Recovery
Understanding Brain Tumor Symptoms: What You Need to Know
What are the symptoms of a brain tumor? Hello Dr. Hsiao: What are the obvious symptoms if someone has a brain tumor? For the past month or two, I've been feeling something unusual with my scalp; it's not pain, but rather a tingling sensation. Sometimes it occurs on the ...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
The symptoms of brain tumors are very diverse, but it is rare for them to present as scalp numbness; facial numbness is more common. If you are concerned, it is advisable to consult a specialist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Brain Tumor Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Managing Mild Concussions: Rest, Nutrition, and Recovery Tips
Concussion In addition to getting plenty of rest after a mild concussion, it is beneficial to stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water, as proper hydration supports overall brain function. Eating a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: After a head injury, 5% of patients will experience lifelong complications due to post-traumatic sequelae. The recovery time varies among patients depending on the severity of the injury. Generally, episodes of dizziness and headaches often persist for 1 to 3 months. Durin...[Read More] Managing Mild Concussions: Rest, Nutrition, and Recovery Tips
Understanding Brain Injury After a Car Accident: Recovery and Risks
Car accident? My brother was in a car accident and has been in a coma for a week. He woke up after three days but his cognitive abilities seem to have regressed to that of a child, and he is also speaking nonsensically. The doctors mentioned that there are small blood clots in hi...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: First, the primary purpose of surgery by a neurosurgeon for patients with head trauma is to relieve pressure. Therefore, if the hematoma is not large, surgery is not necessary, as the hematoma will be absorbed naturally. In fact, the severity of the head injury is already ...[Read More] Understanding Brain Injury After a Car Accident: Recovery and Risks
Can Brain Surgery Patients Safely Fly? Understanding Risks and Recovery
Is it safe to fly after having brain surgery? I had a car accident two years ago, which injured my left hemisphere. I underwent brain surgery, and for the past few months, I have been experiencing dizziness at night. If I go out in the evening, I also have headaches. Could this b...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: This is a post-traumatic sequela, but congratulations on your recovery. I recommend that you continue to follow up. If everything goes well, symptomatic treatment may suffice for dizziness and headaches. Whether a patient who has undergone brain surgery can fly depends ent...[Read More] Can Brain Surgery Patients Safely Fly? Understanding Risks and Recovery
Post-Concussion Care: Tips for Recovery and Brain Health
Concussion In addition to getting plenty of rest after a mild concussion, it is beneficial to stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water, as proper hydration supports overall brain function. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: A mild concussion should recover quickly, and there is no need to avoid food or apply heat to the head. Thank you![Read More] Post-Concussion Care: Tips for Recovery and Brain Health
Post-Operative Overdrainage in Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery
Is there a risk of excessive drainage after ventricular-peritoneal shunt surgery? Hello Doctor: My father underwent a ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery at National Taiwan University Hospital over a year ago due to a diagnosis of hydrocephalus. Recently, he exhibited symptoms sim...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: There is a possibility of excessive drainage with ventricular-peritoneal shunting (though it is rare). It is advisable to replace it with a drainage device that has a different (higher) pressure setting (there are three types of external drainage device pressures). It is b...[Read More] Post-Operative Overdrainage in Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery
Why Does the Brain Develop Indentations After Surgery for Head Injuries?
Why does the brain become sunken after surgery for a brain injury? Hello Doctor, my grandmother (76 years old) had a car accident four months ago, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. The doctors diagnosed her with intracranial hemorrhage, and she underwent two brain surgeries....
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: It may be the reservoir of the drainage tube, but since I cannot see it in person, I am unable to provide an answer. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery.[Read More] Why Does the Brain Develop Indentations After Surgery for Head Injuries?
Understanding Head Pain After Trauma: When to Seek Medical Imaging
Please inquire about the issue of head pain? Hello Dr. Ding: About six years ago, I was hit on the head by a small iron ball with a diameter of 3 centimeters in a parabolic manner. Although I only felt a bit of pain at the time and did not notice any external injuries or signs of...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Your headache may not be significantly related to your previous head injury, and currently, there is no need for extensive testing. I recommend consulting a neurologist to explore potential treatment options. Additionally, X-rays will not be helpful for this issue and will...[Read More] Understanding Head Pain After Trauma: When to Seek Medical Imaging
Understanding Head Injuries in Children: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Pediatric head injury Doctor, my one-year-old daughter accidentally hit her head while playing yesterday afternoon. The back of her head struck the ground, and she initially just cried. However, in the evening, she started to vomit, so we rushed her to the hospital. The doctor sa...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: If you experience vomiting immediately after eating, it may be necessary to consider gastrointestinal disorders. Vomiting caused by head trauma is quite specific and differs from vomiting due to general gastrointestinal issues. Therefore, I recommend that you follow up at ...[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries in Children: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Numbness in the Feet: Causes and Concerns
Numbness in the soles of the feet? Dr. Hsiao: I returned home yesterday and noticed that the soles of my feet were numb, and this sensation has persisted into the next day without any pain. It just feels tingly, but I can still move my toes. I'm not sure what this condition ...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Based solely on your description, it seems difficult to make a diagnosis. There could be various possibilities ranging from neuropathy caused by diabetes to issues with the spinal nerve roots, and even circulatory problems or brain-related issues cannot be ruled out. Of course, s...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Numbness in the Feet: Causes and Concerns
Concerns About Self-Harm and Potential Brain Injury: What to Know
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor: My boyfriend, who is the same age as me and in high school, has been struggling with depression. He often engages in self-harming behaviors and has made attempts at suicide. During arguments, he frequently clenches his ...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Hello Nini: Hitting the head with your hand does not typically cause intracranial hemorrhage. However, if there are symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or altered consciousness, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Currently, attention should be given to the suicida...[Read More] Concerns About Self-Harm and Potential Brain Injury: What to Know
Post-Accident Head Injury: Understanding Symptoms and Follow-Up Care
Head trauma from a car accident! Hello Doctor: My father, born in 1989, had a motorcycle accident two days ago, resulting in a laceration at the right hairline, which was sutured in the emergency department. However, he is exhibiting the following symptoms: 1. Since the day of th...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Hello Fifi: The symptoms mentioned, including transient amnesia, are part of the post-concussion syndrome. If no blood clots are found on the CT scan, recovery will occur on its own after rest.[Read More] Post-Accident Head Injury: Understanding Symptoms and Follow-Up Care
Exploring Advanced Treatments for Brain Tumors: Balancing Aggressive and Conservative Approaches
Brain tumor Hello doctor, I previously underwent some treatments for my brain, including radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery, totaling approximately 12,000 units, which has reached saturation. After surgery to remove the tumor, most of it was necrotic. A portion that ...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Hello, the radiation therapy and surgery have been completed. It is currently recommended to continue regular follow-ups to monitor the changes in the tumor, and then discuss the next steps with your physician.[Read More] Exploring Advanced Treatments for Brain Tumors: Balancing Aggressive and Conservative Approaches
Understanding Post-Trauma Head Pain: Is It a Residual Effect or Something More?
Brain issues Hello Doctor: Six years ago, I was in a car accident and hit my head, losing consciousness at the time. The doctor diagnosed me with intracranial hemorrhage. After resting for about a month, the doctor said the blood clot had dissipated, and I returned to my normal l...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Hello Zhu Zhu: You have been injured for six years, and the headaches are likely a sequela. It is recommended to visit a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Post-Trauma Head Pain: Is It a Residual Effect or Something More?
Effective Strategies to Help Your Partner Quit Smoking After Brain Surgery
Cerebral aneurysm My husband underwent surgery for a brain aneurysm two months ago. Fortunately, the doctor was highly skilled, and he is now recovering as usual. However, my husband is a heavy smoker, and the doctor advised him not to smoke after the surgery. Yesterday, I found ...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Hello, Amei netizen: Serving with medical expertise is the responsibility of a physician, and we appreciate your recognition of the medical community! Regarding your smoking cessation issue, factors such as smoking history, environment, willpower, and even family communication an...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Help Your Partner Quit Smoking After Brain Surgery
Understanding Neurological Changes in Psychosomatic Disorders
Hello, doctor~ Thank you~ Hello, I am a person with a neurosis and would like to ask some questions. Thank you. 1. Since I became ill, my cognitive abilities have significantly declined. Is there any change in the brain for people like us (such as degeneration...)? 2. The huma...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
Most patients with neuroses do not exhibit structural abnormalities in the brain. Cognitive impairment may be related to the medications used, as long-term use can lead to further brain development without causing enlargement or compression of the opposite side of the brain. Incr...[Read More] Understanding Neurological Changes in Psychosomatic Disorders
Understanding Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Causes and Implications
Causes of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage? My friend suffered a car accident that resulted in a brain hemorrhage and is now paralyzed in bed. His family requested a medical certificate from the doctor to apply for accidental injury insurance compensation, but the diagnosis ...
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
A car accident itself does not cause hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage; however, if a sudden intracerebral hemorrhage occurs while driving, leading to an accident, it is still considered an accident. As for paralysis, it may be due to the damage to brain tissue from the hemor...[Read More] Understanding Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Causes and Implications
Understanding Ependymoma: Treatment Options and Potential Outcomes
Ependymoma What is an ependymoma? Is surgery always necessary? What potential complications can arise, and what is the best approach for management? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Tumors can grow in the brain or the spinal cord. Generally, ependymomas are treated with surgery followed by radiation therapy.[Read More] Understanding Ependymoma: Treatment Options and Potential Outcomes
Seeking Help for Post-Surgery Neurological Issues: A Call for Assistance
Emergency Assistance (Forwarded by the Department of Health) My wife, Li Mi, underwent a 9 cm meningioma surgery on March 14, 2003, at Cathay General Hospital, performed by neurosurgeon Dr. Huang Jinshan. Since then, she has been unable to sleep normally and requires a combinatio...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you return to Dr. Huang Jinshan's outpatient clinic for further evaluation and treatment. Additionally, if the brain tumor is benign, you will not be able to apply for major illness benefits. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery, Taoyuan ...[Read More] Seeking Help for Post-Surgery Neurological Issues: A Call for Assistance