Understanding Hydrocephalus: Why Spinal Drainage May Fail
Cerebral edema with inadequate drainage? The mother underwent a CT scan and was diagnosed with cerebral edema. The doctor arranged for spinal drainage, but was unable to extract any fluid. Is this due to obstruction or are there other factors involved?
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Cerebral edema cannot be drained, while hydrocephalus can.[Read More] Understanding Hydrocephalus: Why Spinal Drainage May Fail
Can Brain Aneurysms Disappear? Insights from a Neurology Case
Arterial aneurysm Hello Dr. Chang, I was diagnosed with a cerebral aneurysm after experiencing severe headaches and undergoing a CT scan in 2017. Subsequently, I had MRI and angiography arranged. Over the past few years, I have had two follow-up MRIs, and the results indicated th...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Theoretically, it is unlikely for it to disappear, but nothing is absolute. It may be necessary to inquire in detail with the physician about the size and type of the aneurysm, among other factors.[Read More] Can Brain Aneurysms Disappear? Insights from a Neurology Case
Understanding Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Recovery
Anal fissure Hemorrhoids Hello Doctor: My symptoms started on Wednesday after eating mochi and having salad for several consecutive days. By Thursday noon, I suddenly had diarrhea (with muddy stools) and noticed blood in my stool since then (the amount was quite significant). I e...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
1. Anal fissures and hemorrhoids typically do not cause fever or chills; other underlying causes should be considered. 2. Mild hemorrhoids and anal fissures can benefit from warm sitz baths and increased fluid intake to maintain smooth bowel movements; symptoms may improve within...[Read More] Understanding Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Recovery
Understanding Urachal Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Urachal tumor My brother has been experiencing a high fever of 40 degrees Celsius for several days, and he has a pus-filled abscess in the lower left abdomen. He was hospitalized on Tuesday for treatment (trying medication to see if it can reduce his body temperature). On Wednesd...
Dr. Chen Bingze Reply:
Hello, I believe your concerns are valid. Your attending physician should be fully engaged in collaborating with other specialists to assist in your brother's treatment. However, we may need to wait for the pathology report to determine the exact issue.[Read More] Understanding Urachal Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Unusual Growths After Finger Injury: When to Seek Help
During the healing process of a cut on the index finger, an unknown protruding mass of tissue has developed? Five years ago, I sustained a cut on my index finger from a metal piece. The wound was slanted across the finger, resulting in the flesh not being completely severed but r...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang Reply:
1. You should consult with a plastic surgeon. 2. A small protruding lump may be a scar deformity or a granuloma, among other possibilities. 3. It has persisted for several years, and the symptoms are still present; most cases require surgical treatment.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Growths After Finger Injury: When to Seek Help
Understanding Soft Anal Masses: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Perianal mass Hello Dr. Chang, Recently, I noticed a small soft and elastic lump at the anal opening while taking a shower. It is asymptomatic, does not hurt when pressed, and is located only on one side of the anus. There has been no bleeding with bowel movements, and I have a ...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
The image is not very clear, but it is likely hemorrhoids. You can start by taking warm sitz baths and maintaining smooth bowel movements. If the symptoms become bothersome, please visit a colorectal specialist.[Read More] Understanding Soft Anal Masses: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Impact of Non-Absorbable Sutures Left in Skin After Surgery
Non-absorbable sutures in the skin? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I underwent a facial dermal graft surgery and later noticed a line appearing on my skin. I consulted the original clinic, and they advised me to remove it, but I feel like I might just be pulling it out and not re...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang Reply:
In general, non-absorbable sutures implanted in the body can lead to three or more conditions: 1. Asymptomatic coexistence 2. Formation of nodules 3. Infection and suppuration or other complications.[Read More] Impact of Non-Absorbable Sutures Left in Skin After Surgery
Understanding Anal Wounds: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Anal wound Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing anal pain after bowel movements for a long time, with slight bleeding (similar to a skin tear) after wiping. I tend to be constipated, and a doctor mentioned that this could be due to hard stools, so I didn't pay much attent...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
1. Pain and bleeding from the anus after bowel movements may be symptoms of anal fissures. If anal fissures recur, they can lead to the formation of ulcers in the local area, which are less likely to heal on their own. It is necessary to check for the presence of abscesses or fis...[Read More] Understanding Anal Wounds: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Black Stools and Blood in Bowel Movements: What to Know
Constipation with black stools and some blood streaks? Hello Doctor, two weeks ago I experienced some constipation, mostly with pellet-like stools, but the stool color was brown. Occasionally, when I drink more water, the stools are normal and tubular. I have observed that there ...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Blood in the stool is not normal and can have various causes, ranging from hemorrhoids to colorectal tumors. Based on your description, the source of the blood in your stool is more likely related to internal hemorrhoids caused by constipation. If you have returned to normal bowe...[Read More] Understanding Black Stools and Blood in Bowel Movements: What to Know
How to Care for an Infected Belly Button: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
There is a white discharge from the navel, requiring debridement and care? Explanation: The belly button had no open wound, but initially there was pain around the belly button and above it. Later, it was discovered that the belly button was dirty and there was a discharge resemb...
Dr. Li Zhonghuai Reply:
Hello! If there is pus in the navel, it is important to first rule out an infection of a congenital urachal cyst, which may require surgical removal. Otherwise, no special care is needed for the navel. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you![Read More] How to Care for an Infected Belly Button: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Post-Surgery Concerns: Numbness and Pain After Stitches and Delayed Removal
Two questions: the first is about suturing, and the second is about delayed suture removal? I would like to ask my first question: Is it normal to experience localized numbness and pain in the thumb after wound suturing, and even to feel similar numbness and pain when extending t...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
1. "The occurrence of localized numbness and pain in the thumb after wound suturing, as well as similar numbness and pain when extending the arm, lasting for 21 days, is not normal. It is recommended to return for a follow-up examination of the wound." 2. "For wo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns: Numbness and Pain After Stitches and Delayed Removal
Managing Post-Traumatic Head Bumps: Treatment Options and Concerns
A lump remaining after a head injury? Hello Doctor, five years ago I sustained an injury to my head (near the hairline on my forehead) when I was hit by someone, resulting in a swelling about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin. At the time, I was too afraid to tell my parents. Now, ...
Dr. Li Zhonghuai Reply:
Hello! It may be advisable to perform an ultrasound first. If it appears to be fluid, it can be aspirated with a needle. However, if it has been present for a long time, it is likely to have formed a solid mass, which usually does not require intervention. If you wish to remove a...[Read More] Managing Post-Traumatic Head Bumps: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Anal Masses: Hemorrhoids, Thrombosis, and Healing Tips
Anal mass Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I felt a hard lump in my rectum while applying medication and visited the clinic. The doctor said it was a ruptured hemorrhoid, while others mentioned it could be a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Today, when I applied the medication, I noticed that...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
1. The duration generally depends on the size and typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. 2. If a rapid resolution is desired, thrombectomy should be performed; otherwise, relying on the body's absorption will take this long.[Read More] Understanding Anal Masses: Hemorrhoids, Thrombosis, and Healing Tips
Understanding Rectal Foreign Sensation: Causes and When to Seek Further Evaluation
Anorectal foreign body sensation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. Last Friday, after eating something spicy, I felt a slight burning sensation in my anus the next day during a bowel movement. Later, I also felt a sensation of something foreign in my anus. I then vis...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Irritating foods can easily cause swelling of hemorrhoids, leading to a sensation of foreign body in the anus. If a digital rectal examination reveals no other rectal issues, soaking in warm water and using hemorrhoid ointment can help reduce swelling and alleviate the sensation ...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Foreign Sensation: Causes and When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding White Bumps Around the Anus: Causes and Treatments
White spots around the anal area? Hello Dr. Chang, It seems like I have keratosis pilaris; the surface of the skin appears red and resembles papules. When I squeeze it, a white, elongated substance comes out, which does not look like pus but more like comedones. There are many ...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Based on your description, it seems more like folliculitis around the anus, which originates from the subcutaneous glands rather than the anal glands. It is recommended to maintain local cleanliness and ventilation, supplemented with oral medication and antibiotic ointment. It is...[Read More] Understanding White Bumps Around the Anus: Causes and Treatments
Post-Surgery Concerns After Anal Fistula Procedure: Your Questions Answered
Post-anal fistula surgery Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you multiple times. I underwent a fistula micro-surgery in January, and it has been about four months since then. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. I still experience some pain at the surgical site ...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
1. The size of the surgical wound for a fistula may take several months to heal completely. A qualified colorectal surgeon's assessment of the fistula's condition is generally reliable. If a more skilled surgeon believes the surgery has failed, it is advisable to consul...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns After Anal Fistula Procedure: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Anal fissure issues (continued) Hello Dr. Ke: Thank you for taking the time to respond on May 1st. After visiting another clinic, I realized that the wound on the right posterior side is about one centimeter inside the anal area, which is not a large wound. Therefore, after using...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
1. Symptoms that persist for more than one month are considered chronic. 2. Sitz baths are recommended 3-4 times a day for 15 minutes each time, with water temperature not exceeding 36-38 degrees Celsius. If discomfort occurs after the bath, a topical ointment can be applied. ...[Read More] Understanding Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Challenges in Managing Hydrocephalus: When Shunt Drainage Fails
The patient has symptoms of hydrocephalus and has had a shunt installed. The drainage is set to maximum, but the results are not satisfactory? Dear Dr. Zhang, My mother is 67 years old. In 2018, she underwent surgery for a carotid artery aneurysm that was compressing her brainst...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed examination reports and imaging studies, it is difficult to answer such questions. If the drainage has been maximized and the condition has not improved, it may not be a problem related to hydrocephalus. Whether there is an improvement in hydrocephalus can be det...[Read More] Challenges in Managing Hydrocephalus: When Shunt Drainage Fails
Understanding Persistent Vegetative State After Brain Tumor Surgery: Key Insights
Brain issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a relative who underwent a biopsy surgery for a brain tumor. They were originally scheduled for discharge, but before leaving the hospital, they experienced seizures, vomiting, and loss of bowel and bladder control. Subsequentl...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cannot detect all brain issues; a normal scan does not mean there are no problems in the brain. There may be other causes for the patient's coma.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Vegetative State After Brain Tumor Surgery: Key Insights
Understanding Breast Tumor Biopsy Results: What You Need to Know
Breast tumor biopsy issues? Hello Doctor, I am 27 years old and have no family history of breast cancer. Last week, I went for a breast surgery consultation and found a 1 cm tumor. The doctor suggested a biopsy and believed the likelihood of malignancy was low, so it was a precau...
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
The biopsy results of the breast tumor show squamous metaplasia. The clinician recommends complete excision of the tumor due to concerns that it may be metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Generally, the likelihood of such malignant tumors occurring in the breast is very lo...[Read More] Understanding Breast Tumor Biopsy Results: What You Need to Know