Understanding Anxiety and Panic Disorders: When to Seek Help
Anxiety and panic? Hello, Doctor: I am a patient suffering from anxiety disorder, hypochondria, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I often worry and doubt that I have cancer or a serious illness. Whenever I feel a lump on my body, I fear that I have cancer. I freq...
Dr. Wang Zhenyang Reply:
Hello, In your letter, you clearly described your anxiety situation. I recommend that you seek medical attention from a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic specialist as soon as possible. Medication and some psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help al...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Panic Disorders: When to Seek Help
Helping a Loved One with Severe Depression: Strategies and Resources
Depression Dear Dr. Wang, My brother was diagnosed with severe depression two months ago, but after taking medication only twice, he refused to continue due to side effects such as dizziness and weakness. He has also been experiencing frequent auditory hallucinations, insomnia, ...
Dr. Wang Zhenyang Reply:
Hello: I apologize for the late response! I was unaware of this email until our hospital assistant printed it out for me. If your brother is exhibiting violent behavior, it is indeed necessary to seek involuntary hospitalization. You can request assistance from local health depar...[Read More] Helping a Loved One with Severe Depression: Strategies and Resources
Understanding the Side Effects of Zolpidem: A Student's Experience
Side effects of sleeping pills? Hello, doctor. I am currently a fourth-year student preparing for graduate school entrance exams. About a month ago, due to insomnia, I took two sleeping pills from my roommate. The medication is Zolnox (Zolpidem Hemitartrate 10mg), and I took one ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Zolnox can indeed cause drowsiness as a side effect, but this typically lasts for a few days at most after discontinuation. It usually does not persist for weeks and generally does not lead to permanent sequelae. Therefore, it is li...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Zolpidem: A Student's Experience
Understanding Neck Stiffness: Anxiety or Underlying Condition?
Neck stiffness lasting for more than two weeks? In the past month, I have been experiencing frequent neck stiffness. It started about a month ago after a day of severe dizziness. I underwent various tests, including blood tests, CT scans, X-rays, and an electrocardiogram, and the...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Chien-Li, Chronic meningitis is mostly caused by infections and can present with symptoms such as fever, neck stiffness, headache, diplopia, and altered consciousness. Patients typically exhibit signs of infection, and neck stiffness is just one of the symptoms; it cannot s...[Read More] Understanding Neck Stiffness: Anxiety or Underlying Condition?
Understanding the Risks of Long-Term Use of Seroquel: Symptoms and Concerns
Will overeating Tinos cause these symptoms? Hello, doctor. My sister has been suffering from sleep disorders and has been taking Seroquel (quetiapine) for about three years. She started with a small dosage, but now she takes dozens of pills a day. She feels very uncomfortable wit...
Dr. Su Zongwei Reply:
Regarding the long-term side effects of excessive use of steroids, it is currently known that there can be memory impairment, a tendency to lie, irritability, disorganized speech, and signs that may resemble delusional disorders. These symptoms may not necessarily be due to the m...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Long-Term Use of Seroquel: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Top Head Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
My mother has a headache on the top of her head? Dear Dr. Lee, I would like to inquire about my mother's issue with pain on the top of her head. She is 65 years old and has been experiencing this "top of the head pain" for a long time. According to her, it started...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Headaches can be caused by either organic or non-organic factors. Organic factors may include conditions such as brain tumors or strokes. Non-organic factors are often related to stress, leading to tension-type headaches. Based on y...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Top Head Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding ADHD: Insights for Parents of Active Children
Pediatric Inquiry The child is currently in the third grade of elementary school. He is usually very active, has difficulty concentrating, and loves to talk. He can chat from Taipei all the way to Kaohsiung during a car ride, but can also settle down to read. His academic perform...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello, Ah Yuan: The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) includes three components: hyperactivity, inattention, and poor impulse control. Gifted children, on the other hand, often exhibit abundant thinking and can learn any problem quickly; they may alread...[Read More] Understanding ADHD: Insights for Parents of Active Children
Understanding Emotional Struggles: Navigating Mental Health Challenges
What is wrong with me? Hello, doctor. Three years ago, I saw a doctor and took medication due to persistent low mood, but I felt better afterward. However, two years later, I experienced similar feelings during a major exam period, and now almost a year has passed since then. Aft...
Dr. Wu Peijun Reply:
Hello: It sounds like you have been going through a tough time lately, and I'm sorry to hear that. The episode of depression you experienced three years ago may have been a major depressive episode. If that is the case, full recovery is possible, but the risk of recurrence i...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Struggles: Navigating Mental Health Challenges
Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: The Sound of Ambulances
The sound of an ambulance? Symptoms: Hello, doctor. Since last Thursday, I have been frequently hearing the sound of ambulances. At first, I didn't pay much attention because my school is located on a busy road, and it's quite common to hear ambulances. However, I keep ...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello Mimi, To be honest, it doesn't seem likely, especially since it's only been five days. Additionally, you have a history of prolonged headphone use, so I recommend that you see an otolaryngologist to check your auditory nerve. Also, you mentioned experiencing hyp...[Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: The Sound of Ambulances
Improving Focus in Children: Understanding Attention Deficit Issues
Inability to concentrate? Hello, I have a fourth-grade boy who has always struggled to concentrate in class since he was little. It seems like he understands what the teacher is teaching, but he also appears not to. He often forgets things and is very interested in dynamic activi...
Dr. Chen Zhicai Reply:
Then, go to the nearest hospital to consult a child and adolescent psychiatrist for an evaluation of the child's attention, cognitive abilities, and related factors affecting attention, in order to determine the appropriate treatment and intervention methods.[Read More] Improving Focus in Children: Understanding Attention Deficit Issues
Can Facial Blushing Be Treated? Understanding Social Anxiety and Solutions
Is there a treatment for blushing? Hello Dr. Chen, I am someone who gets easily nervous and my face turns red when I laugh! I’ve noticed that I increasingly dislike this and feel useless. Gradually, I’ve become more depressed, pessimistic, and evasive, even having thoughts of w...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello, frog at the bottom of the well: This is indeed social anxiety disorder. If you experience avoidance behaviors that affect your interpersonal, occupational, and social functioning, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Current treatment options include antidepressants,...[Read More] Can Facial Blushing Be Treated? Understanding Social Anxiety and Solutions
Chronic Fatigue and Blurry Vision: Could It Be a Mental Health Issue?
Feeling constantly fatigued and experiencing worsening vision could be indicative of several medical conditions. Possible causes may include diabetes, anemia, thyroid disorders, or even vitamin deficiencies. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough eval...
Dr. Su Zongwei Reply:
Some physical illnesses can also lead to eye problems. It is advisable to first consult with an internist or family medicine physician to check for other physiological conditions. If those are normal, then you can see a neurologist to investigate any potential brain issues. If no...[Read More] Chronic Fatigue and Blurry Vision: Could It Be a Mental Health Issue?
Managing Impulsivity and Focus Issues in Children: A Parent's Guide
What should I do about insufficient focus and impulsive behavior? Hello Dr. Chen: I have a six-year-old boy who is experiencing issues with attention and impulsive behavior. The parent-child relationship is in a negative state, and I am unsure how to proceed. We have previously t...
Dr. Chen Zhicai Reply:
Confused Mother: Attention deficits and impulsivity are common issues in pediatric and adolescent psychiatry. It is important to discuss with your physician which specific target behaviors need to be addressed, which can be managed through medication (not just focusing on side ef...[Read More] Managing Impulsivity and Focus Issues in Children: A Parent's Guide
Could Your Physical Symptoms Be Linked to Mental Health Issues?
Mental illness? Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent fatigue and a significant decline in physical strength for a year. I often feel a sense of pressure between my eyebrows, have a stiff neck, feel dizzy, and experience blurred vision. I have already consulted various spec...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello, Peanut: In order to diagnose a mental disorder, it is essential to rule out any physical issues. Although there is an interplay between the two, the treatment approaches differ. Since all the examinations across various specialties have shown no abnormalities, it is indeed...[Read More] Could Your Physical Symptoms Be Linked to Mental Health Issues?
Struggling with Guilt and Mental Health: A Son's Heartbreaking Journey
An unsolvable problem? Hello, doctor: I am a patient with a neurosis and suffer from severe obsessive-compulsive disorder! At the same time, I feel like an unfilial child! In 2003, I attended a very poor school due to my academic pursuits, which caused me to suffer and feel hurt....
Dr. Su Zongwei Reply:
I believe your mother's passing has made you feel very sad. However, it is important for everyone to have the desire to improve themselves. It is unfortunate that your mother missed the opportunity for treatment, but you must take good care of yourself. Whether you are deali...[Read More] Struggling with Guilt and Mental Health: A Son's Heartbreaking Journey
How to Help a Loved One with Delusional Disorder Who Refuses Treatment?
What should be done if a person suspected of having a delusional disorder is unwilling to seek medical treatment? Hello Dr. Chen, I previously consulted you regarding my spouse's issues with delusional disorder, and I would like to seek your advice again. Based on my observa...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello Mike, Based on your description, it seems more like an environmental stress factor combined with a naturally suspicious personality, leading to an adjustment disorder rather than necessarily a delusional disorder. A definitive diagnosis still requires clinical evaluation....[Read More] How to Help a Loved One with Delusional Disorder Who Refuses Treatment?
Understanding Paranoid Delusions: Seeking Help for My Father's Condition
I believe my father has mixed-type delusional disorder? Hello, doctor. I found this website on Yahoo Knowledge+. Here's the situation: my father has been experiencing issues for the past five years. Due to a poor relationship with our neighbors, he even started installing su...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello, Pichu: Five years ago, you were about 13 years old, and based on that, your father estimates that you are around 40 years old now. At this age, it is possible for schizophrenia to manifest, although it typically occurs in males between the ages of 15 and 25. The difference...[Read More] Understanding Paranoid Delusions: Seeking Help for My Father's Condition
Understanding Symptoms of Long-Term Insomnia and Emotional Instability
What are the symptoms? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my long-term insomnia and emotional instability. I sometimes experience loss of control, such as yelling at people and throwing things. My emotions feel strange, as if I can't control them. I also have sudden ou...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Based on what you described, the hallucinations and delusions do seem to be symptoms of a mental illness. Patients with mental disorders are often not fully aware that they are unwell, which can lead to a lack of seeking medical att...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Long-Term Insomnia and Emotional Instability
Understanding OCD: The Impact of Perfectionism and Materialism on Students
The scientific perspective (materialism) and perfectionism leading to obsessive-compulsive disorder? I am currently a sophomore in high school. This issue has existed for a long time. Just now, I discovered online that there are people with symptoms very similar to mine, which ma...
Dr. Chen Zhicai Reply:
Dear Xu, Hello! Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a medical condition that requires pharmacological treatment; it cannot be resolved simply through conversation. OCD symptoms can indeed affect concentration and academic performance, but poor grades and lack of focus are no...[Read More] Understanding OCD: The Impact of Perfectionism and Materialism on Students
Managing Sleep Issues in Elderly Patients with Schizophrenia
Sleep and Medication Issues Dear Dr. Chou, I would like to ask about my father (85 years old). He has a bad temper and is exceptionally nice in front of certain people. His behavior has been very strange in the past six months (throwing things, wanting to hit people, excessive s...
Dr. Zhou Sunyuan Reply:
Urethane is classified as a sedative-hypnotic and can be beneficial for sleep in the general population as well as in patients with schizophrenia. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication that has mild sedative side effects, which may be helpful for patients with schizophrenia. ...[Read More] Managing Sleep Issues in Elderly Patients with Schizophrenia