Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
The intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1 have herniated and have been surgically treated? Hello, Dr. Zhang. I have suffered from a car accident resulting in herniation of the intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1, which severely affects my daily life. I have undergone rehabi...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Chen: Regarding your questions, my responses are as follows: 1. Both the fixation screws and the support frame are methods for stabilizing the spine; they simply have different developmental timelines, and there is no theoretical error in this. 2. It is not possible to deter...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
Understanding Parlodel Side Effects and Alternatives for Pituitary Tumors
Parlodel medication Taking one tablet of Parlodel daily to treat a 0.2 cm pituitary tumor can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, nasal congestion, and rapid heartbeat. These are considered common side effects. There are alternative medications available, and it may be ...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Parlodel may have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, facial flushing, orthostatic hypotension, insomnia, headache, nasal congestion, tinnitus, and abnormal liver function. The usual dosage of Parlodel is 2.5 mg, with a recommended daily dose of 2.5 ...[Read More] Understanding Parlodel Side Effects and Alternatives for Pituitary Tumors
Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Treatment Options and Concerns
Pituitary tumor A pituitary tumor measuring 0.2 cm has been present for 3 years. Due to not taking medication for a long time, the prolactin level has recently risen to 144.69. Will surgery completely eradicate the tumor? Will taking one tablet of Parlodel daily lead to a complet...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Based on the information provided, due to the lack of complete data, we will temporarily assume that you have a prolactinoma (a pituitary tumor that secretes prolactin). Generally speaking, for prolactinomas smaller than 1 cm, medication management (such as with Bromocriptine, ma...[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Bone Cement Injection for Spinal Compression Fractures
Regarding bone cement? Hello: My mother is over 70 years old and two years ago, she suffered a lumbar compression fracture after accidentally falling while stepping back. The pain was unbearable, and after being treated by an orthopedic specialist and resting, the pain has subsid...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: We recommend that you visit the Spine Orthopedics Clinic at our hospital to see Dr. Wang Zikang, who will assess your condition and provide you with accurate answers.[Read More] Understanding Bone Cement Injection for Spinal Compression Fractures
Post-Operative Follow-Up for Brain Aneurysm: Key Questions Answered
Postoperative follow-up issues for cerebral aneurysm? Dear Dr. Ding, Thank you very much for your response on September 1 regarding my questions about the recovery time from double vision after my brain aneurysm surgery on August 28. I appreciate it! The reason I inquired about ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Mr. Hong: I recommend that you discuss this matter with your attending physician. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Attending Neurosurgeon, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Post-Operative Follow-Up for Brain Aneurysm: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Brain Aneurysms: Recovery, Risks, and Care Tips
Cerebral aneurysm Dear Dr. Ding, On July 19, I was hospitalized due to dizziness and vomiting, and it was discovered that there was a 1 cm vascular malformation in my brainstem that had hemorrhaged. However, by the time I was admitted, the bleeding had stopped. The neurosurgeon ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Mr. Hong, 1. The likelihood of a clip dislodging is quite low, and we have not heard of any such cases so far. 2. 3. Please discuss this with your surgeon. 4. It is not necessary. 5. In principle, if the surgical clip has been properly placed, there is no need to worry abo...[Read More] Understanding Brain Aneurysms: Recovery, Risks, and Care Tips
Understanding Peripheral Vestibular Dizziness: Causes and Concerns
Peripheral vertigo Yesterday morning, I suddenly experienced dizziness and vomiting upon waking up. I went to the emergency room, and the doctor said it was peripheral vertigo. Is there really such a medical term? What could cause these symptoms (I had a head injury about 7 years...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, it seems to be an inner ear issue, specifically "Meniere's disease." If the symptoms persist, you should visit an otolaryngology clinic.[Read More] Understanding Peripheral Vestibular Dizziness: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Disc Herniation at C5-C6: Treatment Options and Concerns
Herniated disc (C5-C6) Hello, I would like to consult you about my colleague, a 32-year-old woman. Three months ago, she underwent an MRI and was diagnosed with a herniated disc at the C5-C6 level. Initially, she thought that physical therapy would suffice, but after three months...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If the MRI examination confirms it, surgery is recommended. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation at C5-C6: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Sciatica Hello Dr. Chiu, I recently received your response regarding my sciatica issue, and the MRI images have also come out. My doctor mentioned that I do not have a herniated disc; however, there is a noticeably large cyst in the sacral area that is compressing the sciatic n...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Are you diagnosed with syringomyelia? Generally, it does not worsen. I believe you should trust your treating physician, as they have conducted examinations and should have the best understanding of your condition. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Understanding Sciatica: When to Consider MRI and Surgical Options
Sciatica In January, I suddenly experienced strange pain (without any external force) that extended from my left lower back down to my left foot. I went to the hospital's neurology department for an electromyography (EMG) to confirm that there was compression on the sciatic ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If physical therapy has been performed for four sessions without improvement in symptoms, it is recommended to undergo an MRI examination. If there is a clear indication of a herniated disc compressing a nerve, surgical treatment would be advisable. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: When to Consider MRI and Surgical Options
Severe Neck Pain at Work: Understanding Disc Herniation and Treatment Options
Sudden severe stabbing pain in the neck while at work? Hello, I have been working as a delivery driver for a shipping company for two years. About a year ago, in August 2005, shortly after I joined the company (around 3-4 months in), I suddenly experienced severe neck pain while ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is indeed a case of cervical disc herniation. If the imaging studies show significant symptoms, surgical treatment may be necessary. Whether this is classified as an occupational injury is something I cannot answer; it is not related to a spec...[Read More] Severe Neck Pain at Work: Understanding Disc Herniation and Treatment Options
Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Spondylolisthesis Hello, doctor. My older brother has experienced a spinal slip due to a work injury and often feels pain in his lower back, thighs, and the soles of his feet. He went to the hospital for X-rays and MRI examinations, and the doctor mentioned that surgery is an opt...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If an MRI examination shows nerve compression, surgical treatment is the best approach. Generally, health insurance covers this, but some specialized equipment may require out-of-pocket expenses. Neurosurgeon Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Can Brain Tumors Undergo Second Radiation Therapy?
Can a brain tumor be treated with radiation therapy twice? My father is 71 years old and was diagnosed with lung cancer a few years ago at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. After undergoing chemotherapy for the lungs, the cancer metastasized to the brain. He then received radi...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: It is best to discuss with the radiation oncologist regarding the initial dosage, as it is unknown. If it is a single lesion, surgery may be considered. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Can Brain Tumors Undergo Second Radiation Therapy?
Understanding Hemorrhagic Stroke: A Family's Journey Through Crisis
Hemorrhagic stroke Dear Dr. Ding, My mother suffered a hemorrhagic stroke on February 14. At the nursing station, I saw my father signing the physician's critical condition notice. My father mentioned that she was still asking him for tissue when she arrived at the hospital...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: If a patient can survive the critical period of one week after a hemorrhagic stroke, generally speaking, the chances of survival are higher. Your mother may have experienced an intracranial hemorrhage due to anticoagulant therapy, which is inherently a double-edged sword. ...[Read More] Understanding Hemorrhagic Stroke: A Family's Journey Through Crisis
Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Neck pain I have been experiencing neck pain for a while, primarily on both sides of my neck. The discomfort is not very intense, but there is a sensation of fullness or swelling (although there is no actual swelling). Sometimes, it pulsates in sync with my heartbeat. I previousl...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Shoulder and neck pain is a common symptom, often caused by maintaining fixed postures for too long or prolonged screen time. No examination can resolve your symptoms; changing your work habits and lifestyle is crucial. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgeon.[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Post-Trauma Neurological Symptoms: When to See a Specialist
Brain..? Hello doctor, I have a question. I was in a car accident in the past, and the physician issued a report stating: head trauma, cerebral edema, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and atlantoaxial dislocation without associated nerve root paralysis. It has been quite some time since ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Please visit the neurosurgery outpatient clinic. Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Post-Trauma Neurological Symptoms: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Post-Surgery Care for Infants with Dural Hemorrhage
Right-sided subdural hematoma? Hello Dr. Ding, My son, who is over 4 months old, underwent emergency surgery on October 27 due to a right-sided subdural hematoma. He was discharged on November 6 and is already able to wash his hair. While he was in the intensive care unit, he ex...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: The question you asked is a bit premature. Generally speaking, after a traumatic brain injury, there can sometimes be residual effects, with the most concerning being seizures. Therefore, the physician has prescribed you antiepileptic medication. It is currently unknown ho...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Care for Infants with Dural Hemorrhage
Understanding and Managing Behavioral Changes After Intracranial Hemorrhage
Sequelae of intracranial hemorrhage? My father, who is 60 years old, suffered a fall from a height half a month ago, resulting in intracranial hemorrhage (left hemisphere). He is recovering well and is currently being cared for at home by my mother. However, his personality has c...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have a detailed discussion with your father's attending physician and to continue monitoring his condition. Additionally, consider seeking psychological counseling for his irritability. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding and Managing Behavioral Changes After Intracranial Hemorrhage
Effective Treatments for Sciatica: Beyond Surgery Options Explained
excuse me? How can a doctor treat sciatica? Besides surgery, are there other methods? Otherwise, I won't be able to work for a while and support my family.
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
A-Lai: Generally, a period of rest is needed (depending on the severity of the condition) for symptoms to alleviate. If the pain persists, further examination is required to determine the underlying cause of the sciatica. Treatment options include medication and physical therapy;...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Sciatica: Beyond Surgery Options Explained
Understanding Brain Hemorrhage: Surgical Options and Recovery Concerns
Intracerebral hemorrhage I experienced dizziness for a week, and then suddenly lost peripheral vision. I went to the hospital for a CT scan, MRI, and angiography, which indicated an arteriovenous malformation and bleeding (suboccipital hemorrhage). The doctor recommended surgery,...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) should be addressed, and there are currently three treatment options available. The first is surgical intervention, which carries significant risks and potential complications, but the advantage is that it immediately prevents further ble...[Read More] Understanding Brain Hemorrhage: Surgical Options and Recovery Concerns