Understanding Head Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Fall
Head injury, with pain at the site of impact? Hello, doctor. On August 26, while playing on a water slide, I may have slid down incorrectly and hit the back of my head against the slide. At that moment, I felt pain, but there were no other obvious discomforts. Later, the impact p...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The primary concern with head trauma is intracranial hemorrhage. If there are accompanying symptoms of nausea and vomiting, it is advisable to seek treatment at a neurosurgery outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Fall
Understanding S2 Bilateral Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Bilateral S2 cysts Hello Dr. Lai: The MRI examination revealed cysts on both sides of S2, and I am experiencing symptoms such as perineal pain, which worsens when sitting (around the labia and urethral opening), lower back pain, pain in the buttocks on both sides of the groin, an...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Cysts of the sacrum, predominantly affect females (85%). Most cases do not require surgery. Symptoms include pain in the corresponding lumbar, sacral, gluteal, and perineal regions, weakness, numbness, restlessness, and relief when lying flat or on the side. There may...[Read More] Understanding S2 Bilateral Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Head Injury: Can Swelling Resolve on Its Own and Is There a Risk of Bleeding?
I hit the upper left side of my head; is there a possibility of a brain hemorrhage, and can the swelling be reduced? Doctor, I apologize for the interruption! Last night around 9 PM, while bending down to return the communal laundry basket in the laundry room of my dormitory, I a...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. The swelling should resolve on its own. 2. The likelihood of intracranial hemorrhage is low; however, if there is persistent headache, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting, seek immediate evaluation from a neurosurgeon or go to the emergency department.[Read More] Head Injury: Can Swelling Resolve on Its Own and Is There a Risk of Bleeding?
Understanding Head Injuries: Concerns About Skull Indentation
Head issues Hello Doctor, two years ago at school, I was struck twice on the right side of my head near the frontal bone by an emotionally agitated classmate using a wooden broom, which broke in the process. At the time, I only experienced bleeding and no other discomfort. After ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is difficult to say whether it is related to the present, as it happened two years ago. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek consultation at a neurosurgery outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Concerns About Skull Indentation
Post-Surgery Taste Loss: Understanding Causes and Recovery Options
Postoperative loss of taste? Hello Doctor, my mother is currently over 60 years old. About a month ago, she was diagnosed with a 2 cm pituitary tumor that had hemorrhaged. She underwent minimally invasive surgery through the nasal cavity to remove it, and currently, her nasal pas...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
You can visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed examination and diagnosis.[Read More] Post-Surgery Taste Loss: Understanding Causes and Recovery Options
Understanding L5 Spondylolisthesis: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
L5 and sacral vertebrae slippage Hello Dr. Lai, I would like to ask about my condition. I have a fifth lumbar vertebra with spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. Some doctors have said it is grade IV spondylolisthesis, while others have described it as severe. I first discovered t...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Is it possible for this condition to worsen, or can I coexist with it? A: It may worsen. If you feel you can walk and tolerate the symptoms, you can coexist with it (however, it will not be cured) - think of it like continuing to drive an old car. 2. If I do not hav...[Read More] Understanding L5 Spondylolisthesis: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Thumb Tremors: Is It Related to Cervical Disc Issues?
Tremor of the left thumb? Ten years ago, I had an MRI that showed herniated discs at the cervical levels C3-C4-C5, with symptoms that fluctuate in severity. When I feel uncomfortable, I go for physical therapy, but recently my discomfort has increased. Turning my neck to the left...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected to be a symptom of cervical nerve involvement. Given your age and symptoms, there is little likelihood of brain issues or Parkinson's disease. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine Surgery Department, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Thumb Tremors: Is It Related to Cervical Disc Issues?
Post-Discectomy Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Postoperative care after disc herniation surgery? Hello Doctor, I have a herniated disc at L4-L5 and underwent microdiscectomy about a month ago. The doctor mentioned that the procedure involved decompression and removal of the nucleus pulposus, and no other materials were implan...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: I suggest you undergo another MRI for confirmation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Post-Discectomy Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Calf Pain: Causes and Solutions for Students
Dull pain in the calf? Hello, doctor. I am a student, and during this summer vacation, I spend most of my time studying, but I make sure to engage in at least 20 minutes of exercise each day (such as dancing, jogging, or basic strength training). My diet and sleep are also normal...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort is in the knee and ankle joint areas, which is suspected to be due to strain on the ligaments and tendons, related to your reported poor posture. It is recommended to improve your posture, perform warm-up exercises before physical activity, apply heat to th...[Read More] Understanding Calf Pain: Causes and Solutions for Students
Post-COVID Spine Pain: Exploring Inflammation and Management Options
Post-diagnosis spinal pain suspected to be inflammation? I have diabetes, and it has been three weeks since my diagnosis. I am currently experiencing abnormal spinal pain, which is usually accompanied by fever. The pain does not alleviate whether I am sitting or lying down, and I...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: You may need to schedule further examinations at the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for an MRI. The Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.[Read More] Post-COVID Spine Pain: Exploring Inflammation and Management Options
Understanding Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury in ICU Patients
Currently in the intensive care unit, experiencing a stroke affecting the right side of the body, with spinal cord injury? Hello, currently in the intensive care unit, the patient has suffered a stroke affecting the right side of the body, with right pupil dilation and cerebellar...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If a malignant tumor has invaded the brain, including the cerebrum and cerebellum, and there is unilateral pupil dilation, along with a craniotomy for decompression already performed... the patient's condition is actually quite pessimistic, and the chances of recovery...[Read More] Understanding Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury in ICU Patients
Understanding Thoracic Disc Herniation and Scoliosis: What You Need to Know
Thoracic disc herniation and scoliosis? Hello Doctor, three years ago I was diagnosed with a tumor in my thoracic spine during examinations for another specialty, which was confirmed as a benign hemangioma through MRI. Recently, a follow-up MRI showed no changes in the hemangioma...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. As we age, natural aging will occur. 2. Avoid slouching, bending over to lift heavy objects, keep your head up and chest out, engage in more stretching exercises, or consider activities like hanging from a pull-up bar or swimming, or consult a physical therapist for per...[Read More] Understanding Thoracic Disc Herniation and Scoliosis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Head Injuries: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Regarding head injuries? Dear Doctor, My mother bumped her head against a clothesline (metal) last Thursday or Friday. After the incident, she applied some medication herself, cooked dinner, and went to bed without eating. This morning, she felt very dizzy and nauseous and final...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If you experience increased dizziness or vomiting one or two days after taking the medication, it is recommended to visit the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Can Hydrocephalus Worsen Over Time? Seeking Expert Advice
Does hydrocephalus cause the brain to enlarge? Hello Doctor: I visited the neurology department at Yunji Hospital over ten years ago. At that time, my symptoms included hand tremors and numbness. Since no definitive cause was found (I underwent nerve and EEG tests but with no sig...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
You are likely referring to a blister or fluid accumulation, which can potentially increase in size. If there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon for evaluation.[Read More] Can Hydrocephalus Worsen Over Time? Seeking Expert Advice
Managing Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Case Study of 80cc Blood Accumulation
Cerebral hemorrhage of 80cc? Hello Doctor: On June 27, 2023, my brother was brought to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a left-sided intracerebral hemorrhage with an initial volume of 68cc, which increased to 80cc after 6 hours. He has impaired mobility on the right side...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
There are no right or wrong choices, only what is suitable or not. Given the patient's special condition (coagulation dysfunction), a thorough discussion with the physician is necessary to make a decision.[Read More] Managing Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Case Study of 80cc Blood Accumulation
Understanding Bumps on the Skull: Causes and Concerns
Protrusion of the cranial bones? Hello Doctor, I recently noticed a bump near the top of my head. If I divide the area into front, back, left, and right, the front and right sides feel like a normal continuous contour. However, when I touch the back and left sides, there is a sud...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is possible that the irregularities were always present, and you have only recently noticed them. It is recommended to observe for another month or two.[Read More] Understanding Bumps on the Skull: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Skull Bumps: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Slight protrusion of the skull? Hello Doctor, I recently noticed a bony protrusion near the top of my head. I consulted a neurosurgeon who performed a brief physical examination and said it felt normal (as I don't have any symptoms or discomfort). He advised me to monitor it...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. Very difficult. 2. Agree to observe further.[Read More] Understanding Skull Bumps: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Spinal Surgery: Insights on Atypical Recovery and Symptoms
Spinal surgery Hello Doctor: I have ankylosing spondylitis and suffered compression fractures of the T10 and T11 vertebrae due to a car accident in 2017. The fractures were not detected at the time of the accident, and it wasn't until two months later that I experienced numb...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The key factor is not the number of spinal surgeries, but rather the extent of spinal cord injury. Severe spinal cord damage is irreversible. It is possible that nerve compression and injury occur at the moment of injury. The earlier the surgery is performed before irreversible d...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Surgery: Insights on Atypical Recovery and Symptoms
Post-Surgery Weakness in Left Leg: Seeking Recovery Strategies
The left foot is still weak after surgery? Hello Doctor: My father has a history of stroke. From April to early May, he experienced weakness in his left leg and fell, which led him to seek medical attention at several hospitals. The evaluations showed no significant issues, and t...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: I understand your anxiety and encourage you to continue with rehabilitation. However, I do not have your father's relevant medical history, treatment progress, or imaging. For detailed information, I recommend that you consult the original surgeon. Wishing for a speed...[Read More] Post-Surgery Weakness in Left Leg: Seeking Recovery Strategies
Post-Surgery Falls in Hydrocephalus Patients: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Postoperative falls in patients with hydrocephalus? Hello, I would like to ask about my mother. She underwent surgery for hydrocephalus on June 7, and today, June 16, she fell in the bathroom and hit her head. However, the impact was not on the surgical site, which is on the left...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If the patient is alert and shows no neurological deficits, observation is sufficient. If any issues arise, promptly refer to a neurosurgery outpatient clinic or the emergency department.[Read More] Post-Surgery Falls in Hydrocephalus Patients: When to Seek Medical Attention?