Can Surgery Help Alleviate Pain from Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Hello Doctor: My father has developed peripheral neuropathy due to diabetes. After a visit to the neurology department at Veterans General Hospital in June last year, he was diagnosed with moderate to severe neuropathy. The doctor prescribed gabapen...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy cannot be improved through surgical intervention.[Read More] Can Surgery Help Alleviate Pain from Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?
Cholecystitis: Surgical Options and Considerations for High-Risk Patients
Cholecystitis Hello, my mother is a dialysis patient with hypertension and diabetes. Recently, she has experienced loss of appetite and vomiting. An ultrasound revealed that she has gastritis and chronic cholecystitis. The doctor has recommended gallbladder removal. Given that my...
Dr. He Zhenming Reply:
Diabetes mellitus with cholecystitis and gallstones is an indication for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It is recommended to perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out any gastric issues, and to schedule the laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery after adequate preparat...[Read More] Cholecystitis: Surgical Options and Considerations for High-Risk Patients
Understanding Tracheal Polyps: Is Tracheostomy Necessary for Removal?
Tracheal polyp My mother developed polyps in her trachea due to previous intubation, which are blocking 2/3 of her airway. The doctor said she needs surgery to remove them and also to perform a tracheostomy. Is a tracheostomy absolutely necessary? My mother has diabetes and hyper...
Dr. Lin Kecheng Reply:
Hello Juanallison: Prolonged intubation can easily lead to the formation of polyps in the trachea. If these polyps obstruct two-thirds of the trachea, it can result in respiratory distress. Surgical removal is necessary in such cases. Postoperatively, there may be risks of bleedi...[Read More] Understanding Tracheal Polyps: Is Tracheostomy Necessary for Removal?
Differentiating HHNK from DKA: Key Clinical Insights
How to differentiate between HHNK and DKA? HHNK and DKA are both hyperglycemic conditions caused by diabetes, and they both involve the production of ketone bodies. How can they be differentiated clinically?
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) primarily occurs in type 1 diabetes due to a severe deficiency of insulin, which prevents the suppression of fatty acid breakdown, leading to ketoacidotic blood. The blood glucose levels are typically lower than in hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic...[Read More] Differentiating HHNK from DKA: Key Clinical Insights
Understanding Varicose Vein Treatments: Laser Surgery Options and Costs
Varicose veins Are laser microscopy and laser treatment considered two separate therapies, or can they be used in conjunction? How much does laser surgery cost out of pocket? Are there any subsidies or related applications available? My father has a history of diabetes and is 48 ...
Dr. Hou Shouxian Reply:
1. Laser treatment for varicose veins can be categorized into two types: endovenous (internal) and surface (external). Both types are considered out-of-pocket expenses. The cost for endovenous laser treatment ranges from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, while the cost for surfac...[Read More] Understanding Varicose Vein Treatments: Laser Surgery Options and Costs
Understanding the Differences Between Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis What are the differences between acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis? What kind of situations can occur?
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
Hello: The main differences between acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis lie in the frequency of episodes, symptoms, and pathological changes. Acute pancreatitis typically refers to a single episode of pancreatitis, commonly seen in patients with gallstones, with the prima...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis
Safe Surgical Options for Meningioma in Diabetic Patients
Which type of surgery should be used for meningiomas? Dear Dr. Chang, My mother is 60 years old and has recently been diagnosed with a meningioma following an MRI examination. Additionally, she has calcification in her cervical spine, and the meningioma is severely compressing h...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Meningiomas are generally benign tumors that typically grow quite slowly. In elderly patients with small meningiomas that do not present significant symptoms, observation with follow-up examinations every six months to a year may be considered. However, if there is compression of...[Read More] Safe Surgical Options for Meningioma in Diabetic Patients
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
Severe Left Thigh Pain: Should I Consider Surgery or Continue Rehab?
Severe pain in the left thigh? Dear Dr. Ding, I am 57 years old and have been experiencing severe pain in my left thigh for the past three weeks. The pain has escalated from 20 minutes daily to the point where I can no longer get out of bed or walk. Last Friday, I went to the em...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Mr. Tsai: Please discuss in detail with your physician before making a decision, or seek a second opinion at the Neurosurgery outpatient clinic of Taoyuan General Hospital. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery Department.[Read More] Severe Left Thigh Pain: Should I Consider Surgery or Continue Rehab?
Natural Ways to Achieve Fuller Cheeks Without Surgery
I don't know how to handle it. It's hard to choose. I'm counting on the doctor? I have never been overweight before, but ever since I started playing online games, I went from 65 kg to 75 kg. Although I have gained weight, my face has become cuter and more radiant....
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
It is normal for younger individuals to have more sunken cheeks, and one can achieve a satisfactory facial shape around the age of 35 to 40 without cosmetic surgery. It is said that occasionally overeating and then dieting to create some fluctuations in weight can be beneficial; ...[Read More] Natural Ways to Achieve Fuller Cheeks Without Surgery
Understanding Pilonidal Sinus: Surgery, Anesthesia, and Risks Explained
Pilonidal sinus Hello, Dr. Hou. I have been suffering from the aforementioned condition for many years. Currently, I am receiving treatment from Dr. Chang Chia-Luo at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Kaohsiung. The doctor has recommended surgery and general anesthesia. Based on yo...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. A pilonidal sinus is essentially a congenital condition that predisposes individuals to recurrent inflammation. Therefore, to achieve a complete cure, surgical excision is necessary. However, since the condition commonly occurs in the sacrococcygeal area and along the midline,...[Read More] Understanding Pilonidal Sinus: Surgery, Anesthesia, and Risks Explained
Understanding Non-Healing Wounds: Causes and Treatment Options
Wound healing difficulties? Initially, it was just a minor abrasion, but after a few days, it began to show signs of redness and inflammation. The wound continuously exuded a clear fluid, and despite using iodine, ointments, and anti-inflammatory dressings, the drainage persisted...
Dr. Huang Junxiong Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it would be advisable to consult a specialist. I recommend visiting a plastic surgeon or an orthopedic surgeon for evaluation and treatment. The wound may be complicated by infection or allergic reactions (to topical medications, solutions, dress...[Read More] Understanding Non-Healing Wounds: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Sudden Head Pain and Swelling: When to Seek Help
Swelling on the head with throbbing pain? On April 23, I suddenly experienced sharp pain in my head. By April 24, it returned to normal. Around April 26 and 27, the sharp pain started again, and I noticed a small bump on the top of my head at the site of the pain. The forehead ar...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Tumors rarely grow rapidly within a few days, but based on your description, it is difficult to determine your exact condition. I recommend discussing this further with your physician or asking them for a referral for further evaluation. Thank you, Dr. Hong Hsu-Yi.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Head Pain and Swelling: When to Seek Help
Managing Traumatic Hematomas: Effective Treatment Strategies and Recovery Insights
Management of traumatic hematoma? Hello, doctor! My mother sustained a knee contusion due to a car accident around the 20th of last month, resulting in external injury and internal bleeding with swelling. Initially, she underwent ice therapy, artificial skin grafting for the woun...
Dr. Huang Junxiong Reply:
Hello: "Spontaneous drainage of a hematoma" may only indicate that part of the hematoma has leaked serous fluid, while the majority of the hematoma still remains. Based on your description, it is possible that this is a type of "degloving injury." Surgical deb...[Read More] Managing Traumatic Hematomas: Effective Treatment Strategies and Recovery Insights
Post-Surgery Care for Necrotizing Fasciitis: Risks and Recovery Tips
Will a debridement and drainage surgery for necrotizing fasciitis lead to recovery? Hello Doctor: My father recently underwent debridement and drainage surgery for necrotizing fasciitis. The attending physician mentioned that it was discovered early, and if it had been later, it ...
Dr. Huang Junxiong Reply:
Hello: The most important aspects of medical care are adequate debridement and appropriate use of antibiotics. As for whether there is a risk of severe sepsis, further observation may be necessary. It is advisable to remain cautious and not to relax too early or be overly optimis...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Necrotizing Fasciitis: Risks and Recovery Tips
Understanding Body Numbness: When to Seek Neurological Help
Numbness throughout the body? Dear Doctor: My right upper eyelid has been twitching unknowingly for over six months. Recently, the symptoms have lessened, but I still experience occasional spasms. What concerns me more is that for the past couple of days, I have been feeling wave...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: 1. The involuntary twitching of the upper eyelid has been occurring for six months and may be due to facial nerve spasms. It is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon for further evaluation. 2. The intermittent numbness seems less likely to be caused by central nervous system...[Read More] Understanding Body Numbness: When to Seek Neurological Help
Understanding Cellulitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Cellulitis Hello Dr. Li, about 10 days ago, I had a skin break on my big toe. I didn't pay much attention to it or apply any medication, and the wound is nearly healed now. However, today there is swelling and pain around the wound (the redness and heat are not very noticeab...
Dr. Li Junde Reply:
Hello Mr. Wenhan: The skin on your big toe is broken, and it is continuously swollen and painful. This may be due to a wound infection or a combination of contusion and strain that has not healed. Cold weather, poor circulation, or other circulatory issues such as diabetes can ma...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms: Hydrocephalus in Elderly Patients
Hydrocephalus Hello: My father is 68 years old (he has diabetes) and recently underwent a CT scan which revealed hydrocephalus. He had surgery on March 4, and his condition was stable post-operation, although he experienced some dizziness. However, on March 14, the dizziness wors...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: For hydrocephalus, we utilize drainage surgery to alleviate symptoms. There are many reasons for postoperative dizziness. It is recommended that you return for a follow-up consultation with your father's attending physician. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms: Hydrocephalus in Elderly Patients
Understanding Vegetative State: Insights and Hope for Recovery
Vegetative state? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. I have a friend who was in a car accident and suffered a brain injury. Currently, he is unable to take care of himself and relies on a feeding tube for nutrition. He cannot eat, walk, talk, or manage his bowel a...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
1. If it is possible to know that someone is calling him, although his IQ is like that of a child, he should not be considered a vegetative state. As for whether he will recover and to what extent, that is uncertain. 2. Regarding care issues, assistance can be sought from the s...[Read More] Understanding Vegetative State: Insights and Hope for Recovery
Understanding Anal Itching: Is It a Sign of Hemorrhoids?
Anal itching Hello: I have been experiencing itching around the anus for several months. I inquired at the pharmacy and was informed that it might be hemorrhoids. I went home and felt around the area, sometimes I could feel a lump and sometimes I couldn't. Initially, applyin...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Hello: Anal pruritus is a complex manifestation, and hemorrhoids are just one of the possible causes. I have organized an article regarding anal pruritus for your reference. If you are concerned, please consider visiting an outpatient clinic for examination. Thank you for your qu...[Read More] Understanding Anal Itching: Is It a Sign of Hemorrhoids?