Understanding the Fine Line of Illness Awareness in Mental Health
The boundary of insight into illness? Hello, I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia. During my middle school years, I stayed in a rehabilitation center, but there wasn't a specific diagnosis given. My family didn't tell me much, but it was likely related to depressive...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Alu: It seems that your condition is relatively mild and you are responding well to treatment, which is why you appear to be like a normal person. However, it is still recommended that you continue taking your medication to prevent relapse. Each relapse can cause harm to th...[Read More] Understanding the Fine Line of Illness Awareness in Mental Health
Understanding Abnormal Brain Perfusion Results and Their Impact on Cognitive Function
Cerebral perfusion computed tomography (CT perfusion) I underwent a brain CT perfusion scan at National Cheng Kung University, and the doctor informed me of abnormalities. I would like to know what these results signify and whether they are related to my cognitive decline. (Bilat...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Indeed, it is possible that online interactions are related to cognitive decline. Dr. Wu En-Liang.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Brain Perfusion Results and Their Impact on Cognitive Function
Can Brain Perfusion CT Detect Schizophrenia and Other Mental Disorders?
Cerebral perfusion computed tomography (CT perfusion) I was diagnosed with suspected atypical schizophrenia in the psychiatric department, and then I was referred to the neurology department. The neurologist arranged for me to undergo a brain CT scan. I would like to know if a br...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Online users have noted that this examination cannot detect schizophrenia, but it can identify other brain lesions. A brain perfusion CT scan utilizes lipophilic tracers that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, allowing assessment of blood flow perfusion in the frontal lobe, p...[Read More] Can Brain Perfusion CT Detect Schizophrenia and Other Mental Disorders?
Understanding Sleep Sensitivity: Tips for Overcoming Sleep Disturbances
Difficulty falling asleep Hello, doctor. I am very sensitive to sleep, and whenever I try to fall asleep, even the slightest noise can startle me awake. In recent months, as I attempt to sleep, my brain feels like it's being shocked or experiences involuntary jerks, causing ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. 1. The tendency to experience neck and shoulder tightness may be related to muscle tension or poor posture. It is advisable to set a reminder on your phone (e.g., every 30 minutes) to relax your shoulders and neck. This should help improve the situation. 2. Sleep issues ha...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Sensitivity: Tips for Overcoming Sleep Disturbances
Can Piracetam Improve Cognitive Function and IQ?
Does Piracetam enhance intelligence? I have had slower brain responses since childhood, with weak learning, memory, and comprehension abilities. Recently, I have been taking Piracetam. Can it help improve my weaknesses? I feel like my brain is developing more slowly, and I am not...
Dr. Wu Kunhong Reply:
It is highly recommended that you seek medical attention from specialists such as psychiatry or neurology. Please trust a qualified physician to evaluate your condition and determine the appropriate assessment and treatment plan. Wishing you all the best. Dr. Wu Kun-Hong[Read More] Can Piracetam Improve Cognitive Function and IQ?
Understanding Sudden Mood Swings and Self-Harm: When to Seek Help
Emotional issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing sudden mood swings where I start hitting my own head and slapping my face, even though there's nothing specific making me unhappy. When others see this, they just laugh, which makes me feel even worse. I w...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress. If these symptoms have appeared suddenly, it is important to consider whether they are related to a COVID-19 infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Mood Swings and Self-Harm: When to Seek Help
Understanding Cognitive Decline: Overcoming Brain Fog and Mental Struggles
Cognitive decline, brain fog, neurological issues? I have recently been finding it very difficult to check out when shopping. It used to be a simple task, but now it feels very strenuous. My ability to adapt to my environment has also worsened; even the walk to the nearby conveni...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. I wonder if you have experienced any recent changes or shocks in your life that have caused you stress or distress. It is advisable to seek medical attention (in the field of psychosomatic medicine) as soon as possible to facilitate improvement.[Read More] Understanding Cognitive Decline: Overcoming Brain Fog and Mental Struggles
Is My Brother's Condition Delusional Disorder or OCD?
Could you please tell me if this is a case of delusional disorder? My younger brother started having some bizarre thoughts in high school, and his academic performance plummeted. He was later diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and has been on medication for four y...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to concerns about your family member's delusions and hallucinations, as well as the associated mental health symptoms. 1. Schizophrenia, like chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertens...[Read More] Is My Brother's Condition Delusional Disorder or OCD?
Understanding the Causes of Bipolar Disorder: Can MRI Reveal Childhood Trauma?
Causes of Bipolar Disorder A 63-year-old woman was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder and admitted to the psychiatric ward of a hospital. After undergoing an MRI, the doctor asked the family if she had experienced any head trauma during her childhood. This raised questions ...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, if it is a severe brain injury, abnormalities in brain imaging may still be observed 60 years later, but it should not be related to depression. Dr. Wu Enliang.[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Bipolar Disorder: Can MRI Reveal Childhood Trauma?
Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Symptoms and Concerns
Could this be autonomic nervous system dysfunction, or is there a possibility of other cognitive decline? I am a second-year medical student at a university in Taipei. Last week, I was under a lot of stress due to various commitments, which led to daily overwhelming pressure (eve...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: Symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction are varied and lack typical characteristics. If you experience discomfort in your body without a clear cause, it may be due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The autonomic nervous system affects many areas of the body...[Read More] Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Anxiety: A 12-Year-Old's Struggle with Overthinking Health Issues
Is this considered an anxiety disorder? Hello, doctor. I am 12 years old. I have had a tendency to overthink since I was around 6 years old. For example, I can turn a simple cold into thoughts of various serious diseases. Now that I am older and have a smartphone, whenever I feel...
Dr. Wu Kunhong Reply:
It is highly recommended that you seek psychiatric care as soon as possible. Please trust a qualified professional to assess your condition and determine the appropriate course of action to ensure your mental and physical well-being. Wishing you all the best. Dr. Wu Kun-Hong[Read More] Understanding Anxiety: A 12-Year-Old's Struggle with Overthinking Health Issues
Dealing with a Father's Mental Health Struggles: A Family's Dilemma
Dad is unwilling to believe the doctors and family? Hello, I believe my father's personality is influenced by his insecurities, making him more prone to suspicion and highly sensitive to his surroundings. He often struggles to sleep due to noise from neighbors, which frustra...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
If possible, try to empathize with his discomfort, as physical illness can also affect one's mood. You can communicate in a more casual way, mentioning that conditions like neuroses or autonomic nervous system disorders can be treated with certain brain-supporting medication...[Read More] Dealing with a Father's Mental Health Struggles: A Family's Dilemma
Understanding the Side Effects of Sedatives: Is Memory Loss Normal?
What are the side effects of Quieting Tablets? Hello, Doctor. Due to my unstable sleep, you prescribed me a sedative. However, I sometimes feel like I forget what I just did after taking it. Is this normal? Thank you, Doctor.
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The tranquilizer you mentioned has some sedative and hypnotic effects, which can help with sleep. Your experience may be a normal response after taking the medication, as your brain (memory, cognition, etc.) is preparing to rest and sleep. However, it is generally recommen...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Sedatives: Is Memory Loss Normal?
Understanding Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and Dementia: A Caregiver's Guide
Schizophrenia / Anxiety Disorder / Dementia Hello, doctor. I apologize for the interruption. My mother exhibited symptoms of delusions, hallucinations, and illusions earlier this year. After seeking medical attention, the doctor diagnosed her with schizophrenia. After over a mont...
Dr. Tang Jiahong Reply:
After middle age, if hallucinations or delusions occur, it is advisable to check the brain. Visiting a neurologist is a good option to see if any reversible issues can be identified and addressed. Tremors and slow movements can also be discussed with the neurologist to determine ...[Read More] Understanding Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and Dementia: A Caregiver's Guide
Understanding Complex Symptoms in Menopausal Depression: A Guide for Families
I am not sure what the symptoms are? Hello Doctor: My mother is in menopause and is taking medication for depression. She experiences full-body pain daily, including tooth pain, spine pain, and rib pain (doctors have said there are no issues with these). She also continuously pro...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. I'm not sure why your mother is taking antidepressant medication, how long she has been on it, whether there have been any interruptions, or how effective it has been. Initially, if general health checks have not revealed any significant findings, your mother's c...[Read More] Understanding Complex Symptoms in Menopausal Depression: A Guide for Families
Understanding Nocturnal Auditory Hallucinations: When to Seek Help
It is uncertain whether it qualifies as a hallucination? Hello, occasionally I hear a voice calling my name from the door in the early morning, and sometimes there are two knocks on the door, but it only happens once and then stops. This wakes me up, and I have confirmed that my ...
Dr. Cai Qijin Reply:
Hello: Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations – These auditory hallucinations are associated with the brain being in a semi-dream state. The sounds may call your name or say short phrases, and they typically disappear upon waking, usually without significant concern. Insomnia ...[Read More] Understanding Nocturnal Auditory Hallucinations: When to Seek Help
Managing Panic Disorder: Treatment Options Without Disrupting Work
Anxiety, sleepwalking, chest pain, vomiting with blood? My husband has a history of panic disorder due to his family environment since childhood. Although he managed to overcome it for a while, it relapsed four years ago due to work and family stress. He has undergone treatment, ...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Online users suggest considering pharmacotherapy (including non-sedative medications), psychotherapy, relaxation training, and brain stimulation techniques. Dr. Wu En-Liang.[Read More] Managing Panic Disorder: Treatment Options Without Disrupting Work
Understanding Delusions: Definitions and Distinctions in Psychiatry
Definition and Assessment of Delusions Recently, I came across an article about delusions, and I often find myself imagining scenes, sounds, and plots when I'm bored. Novelists, comic artists, animators, television producers, and even some mathematicians who propose certain ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Delusion: a false belief that is firmly held despite contradictory evidence (no explanation can correct it, such as believing that an alien has implanted a chip in the brain). The situation you mentioned pertains to the process of developing certain theoretical concepts an...[Read More] Understanding Delusions: Definitions and Distinctions in Psychiatry
Managing Anxiety and Negative Thoughts During Medication Changes
Anxiety and negative thinking? I'm sorry to bother you again, doctor. Last time I mentioned that I was taking psychiatric medications, specifically Rexulti and Pristiq. I feel like I've lost the pleasure from masturbation and the sensations in my brain, and I no longer ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. As mentioned before, recovery is possible. The estimated time frame is about 3 to 4 weeks, but it varies from person to person; some may recover sooner while others may take longer. Please be patient and try not to feel anxious or engage in negative thinking, as this can l...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Negative Thoughts During Medication Changes
Overcoming Health Anxiety: Breaking the Cycle of Obsessive Worry
Illness Anxiety Disorder with Obsessive Thoughts In high school, I was an athlete and felt invincible. I would let a cold or even a fever close to 40 degrees Celsius run its course without seeking help. I probably visited the doctor no more than five times during high school, eve...
Dr. Li Guanying Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress. With the recent surge in the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has defined the symptoms resulting from acute COVID-19 infection as "Post-COVID Con...[Read More] Overcoming Health Anxiety: Breaking the Cycle of Obsessive Worry