Essential Considerations for Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt and Anti-Siphon Devices
I would like to inquire about the special considerations regarding the implantation of adjustable ventriculoperitoneal shunts and anti-siphon devices? Hello! I am a social worker serving individuals with disabilities. Recently, one of my clients has an implanted ventriculoperiton...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Strong magnetic materials include powerful magnets (not regular magnets) and devices that generate strong magnetic fields, such as medical MRI machines, but do not include mobile phones or computers. However, areas with strong magnetic fields are usually marked, as otherwise, ite...[Read More] Essential Considerations for Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt and Anti-Siphon Devices
Understanding Neurological Issues: Exploring Oral Symptoms and MRI Findings
Brain issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my oral cavity for over five months. I have consulted with specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, dentistry, otolaryngology, neurology, and rheumatology, but so far, none have been able to provide a co...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
To be honest, what you said is too complicated, and it's difficult to answer these questions online. I recommend discussing this with a neurosurgery outpatient clinic and a physician.[Read More] Understanding Neurological Issues: Exploring Oral Symptoms and MRI Findings
Understanding Postural Numbness: Is It Just Cervical Compression?
Posterior right hemisphere edema? Hello, Dr. Chang. This has happened twice, both times while sleeping in a slouched position on a wooden chair, with the back of my head resting directly against the top of the chair back. Upon waking, I experienced a feeling of swelling and numbn...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It sounds like it may be caused by cervical nerve compression; however, it is still recommended to consult a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for an accurate diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Postural Numbness: Is It Just Cervical Compression?
Experiencing Pain Four Years After Head Injury: Should You See a Doctor?
About four years ago, I had a head injury, and now I experience sharp pain? Hello, doctor. About four years ago, I had a motorcycle accident and hit my head. At that time, the doctor evaluated a CT scan and determined there were no issues. However, in recent days, I have been exp...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The issues from four years ago should theoretically not cause headaches now; however, if there is persistent headache, it is still advisable to seek medical evaluation.[Read More] Experiencing Pain Four Years After Head Injury: Should You See a Doctor?
Understanding Pituitary Tumors and Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges
Regarding my father's pituitary tumor and related issues? Hello doctor, my father suddenly experienced severe headaches, high fever, and vomiting at the end of last month, which led to an emergency visit. It was discovered that he has a pituitary tumor. After a lumbar punctu...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Although I would like to help you, your question is too complex, and without medical history and results from imaging studies such as CT scans, it is really difficult to provide an answer. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your father's attending physician to discus...[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Tumors and Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges
Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and Concerns After a Fall
Head issues About three weeks ago, while playing with my puppy, I hurriedly dove into a blanket and hit the top of my head hard. At that moment, it hurt a lot (I was immediately worried about a possible intracranial hemorrhage). Now, I am experiencing some dizziness, hand tremors...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Chronic subdural hematoma is very rare in young individuals; I have personally never seen a case in someone under 15 years old, so there is no need to worry too much. However, if you are truly uncomfortable, please schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for an evaluat...[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and Concerns After a Fall
Understanding Tarlov Cysts: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
2 cm Tarlov cyst Hello, I fell while skiing in Korea on February 26, landing on my buttocks. An X-ray taken in Korea indicated a coccygeal fracture. After returning home, I visited an orthopedic specialist and underwent an MRI. The MRI report stated: "Bone marrow edema-like ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Doctors base their recommendations on past experiences. Tarlov cysts may grow larger, but the rate is usually slow, and they may not grow at all. My suggestion is to have regular follow-ups. If the cyst does increase in size or if neurological symptoms worsen, then further interv...[Read More] Understanding Tarlov Cysts: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Post-Traumatic Head Injury: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Post-head trauma Doctor: Hello. My father, who is 80 years old, suffered a head injury from a car accident two months ago. He has been regularly visiting Mackay Memorial Hospital for follow-up. Initially, there was a slight amount of intracranial hemorrhage, and the doctor said i...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. If there are no issues after two months, then there is likely nothing to worry about, and theoretically, a CT scan is not necessary. 2. It could possibly be a normal anatomical structure.[Read More] Post-Traumatic Head Injury: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Head Injury Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms
Head issues? Three weeks ago, I hit my head on the top when I lay down with force. A few days later, I experienced dizziness and visited an ENT specialist, which helped improve my condition. Recently, I have been experiencing hand tremors and tinnitus, along with a dull, tight he...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Continuous observation is necessary, as the symptoms of chronic subdural hematoma can vary. If there is no improvement with medication and rest, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Head Injury Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms
Understanding Sleep Tremors and Noise: Possible Neurological Issues
Cerebral palsy and noise? Recently, I have been experiencing sudden tremors when trying to fall asleep. During my sleep, I sometimes feel a sudden numbness and shaking in my head accompanied by a high-pitched noise. However, most of my sleep is unaffected by this symptom; it has ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is recommended to conduct a detailed medical history and examination in the neurology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Tremors and Noise: Possible Neurological Issues
Understanding C1 Vertebral Fractures: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Fracture of the posterior arch of the first cervical vertebra? Hello, Dr. Lai! My father-in-law fell from a height of about three meters at a construction site, landing on the right side of his head. Upon arrival at the hospital, he was diagnosed with intracranial hemorrhage and ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: A posterior arch fracture of the first cervical vertebra, if classified as a stable fracture, can be treated conservatively with a cervical collar. However, if there is nerve compression with significant symptoms and the patient's overall condition is suitable, surger...[Read More] Understanding C1 Vertebral Fractures: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Understanding Painful Bumps at the Back of the Head: When to Seek Help
Occipital bone lump There are multiple small hard lumps located on the right side of the back of your head, approximately 5 centimeters from your ear, which sometimes cause pain when pressed, while at other times there is no sensation. Recently, you have been experiencing a dull ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Please schedule an appointment with the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for a physician examination.[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps at the Back of the Head: When to Seek Help
Understanding Brain Injections: Benefits, Risks, and Recovery After Surgery
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt, hydrocephalus, brain tumor? Hello Doctor, my father underwent surgery last August due to a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. After the surgery, he developed hydrocephalus and underwent another procedure to have a drainage catheter installed. However, hi...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Yes, there is no such thing as a "brain-stabilizing injection" in medicine. For headaches, pain relievers are administered, and for dizziness, antiemetics are given. The term "brain-stabilizing injection" was created to reassure the public.[Read More] Understanding Brain Injections: Benefits, Risks, and Recovery After Surgery
Understanding Vascular Malformations: When to Seek Medical Help
Hairy cell vascular lesions Hello, I am a rare disease patient. I underwent two cerebral vascular reconstruction surgeries 13.4 years ago. There are still issues in the lower right part of my brain, but my doctor does not recommend further surgery. I also have a chronic asthma co...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is recommended to first consult a pulmonologist to properly treat asthma.[Read More] Understanding Vascular Malformations: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Temporary Vision Loss After Concussion in Children
A concussion can cause temporary vision impairment in one eye? Hello, a 4-year-old child has sustained a concussion due to a head injury. A CT scan of the brain showed no bleeding, and an ophthalmologist confirmed that there are no issues with the optic nerve or retina. However, ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If there is no improvement, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon, as there may be an injury to the optic nerve, and an MRI may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Temporary Vision Loss After Concussion in Children
Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-concussion syndrome? Hello, doctor. On January 2, 2019, I was involved in a motorcycle accident where I collided with another vehicle, causing me to be thrown off and hit my head. I don't remember whether my knee, buttocks, or head was the first point of impact. I did n...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is important to monitor whether the current symptoms worsen or persist without improvement. Generally, such symptoms tend to improve with adequate rest. If there is no improvement, a consultation with a neurosurgery outpatient clinic should be scheduled for further evaluation ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Hyperhidrosis: Exploring Anticholinergic Medications and Alternatives
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) Hello, Doctor! 1. I have been experiencing palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis for a long time. Currently, I am managing my hand sweating with iontophoresis, but it seems to have compensated with sweating all over my body and feet. I have tried t...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If you cannot coexist peacefully with hand sweating, you may consider trying medication short-term if you can accept the side effects. After that, reassess and decide whether to pursue long-term management. Wishing you well, Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang. 1. Glycopyrrola...[Read More] Managing Hyperhidrosis: Exploring Anticholinergic Medications and Alternatives
Understanding Skull Indentations: When to Seek Medical Attention for Head Injuries
Depressed skull or cranial depression? Yesterday, my son's classmates were playing tag and ran through damaged playground equipment. A hanging metal rod rebounded and struck my ten-year-old son's head. Although there are no visible external injuries or swelling, there s...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Neurological surgery outpatient visit.[Read More] Understanding Skull Indentations: When to Seek Medical Attention for Head Injuries
Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: Treatment and Prognosis After Trauma
Intracranial hemorrhage My husband fell down the stairs on the night of October 13 and suffered a significant impact. There were no obvious external injuries to the head, but he bled profusely from his ears. He was taken to Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and was already in a...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without a complete medical history and assessment, it is not possible to provide an accurate response. I apologize![Read More] Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: Treatment and Prognosis After Trauma
Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Cervical spine surgery (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) Last year, I fell from an aluminum ladder and injured my cervical spine, which led to back pain, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, blurred vision, palpitations, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, memory loss, a...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without a complete medical history, patient history, and neurological examination, it is difficult to provide an accurate answer. I apologize![Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders