Author Archives: Dr. Li

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About Dr. Li

I am a professional surgeon based in Beijing, China.

Main Warning Signs of a Brain Blood-Vessel Tangle

A brain blood-vessel tangle—doctors call it an arteriovenous malformation, or AVM—is a knot of arteries and veins that formed the wrong way before you were even born. Most people never feel it, but if the tangle starts to act up it can shout at you in five clear ways. Sudden “thunderclap” headacheThe pain hits like a switch flipped inside your head—zero to worst in seconds. It can feel like you’ve been hit with a bat, and it usually keeps you from finishing whatever you were doing. Seizure out of the blueYou might jerk, stiffen, or blank out for a minute.... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

A blow, bump, or jolt to the head can bruise the brain, stretch its fibers, or cause bleeding. Symptoms range from “I just got my bell rung” to life-threatening emergencies, so knowing what to watch for keeps you safe. Mild injuries (concussions) often cause a brief headache, dizziness, or “seeing stars.” You might feel foggy, slow to answer questions, or nauseated right after the hit. Memory of the event can be hazy, and lights or noise may bother you for hours or days. Sleep can be restless, mood may swing, and concentration on school or work tasks feels harder. Moderate... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Brain Aneurysm

A brain aneurysm is a weak spot in an artery wall that balloons outward. Most live quietly for years, but when one leaks or bursts it becomes a medical emergency. Knowing the warning signs can save your life. Un-ruptured aneurysms usually cause no symptoms at all. If the sac pushes on nearby nerves you may notice new daily headaches, a droopy eyelid, double vision, or pain behind the eye. These clues are easy to blame on fatigue or allergies, so they’re often missed. A leak typically starts with a sudden, severe headache—patients call it the worst headache of their life.... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Glioma

A glioma is a brain tumor that starts in the glue-like cells that hold nerve cells together. Because these cells are spread throughout the brain, symptoms depend on where the tumor is growing and how fast. Most people notice gradual changes, but sometimes the signs appear suddenly. Headaches are the most common complaint. They often feel dull and steady, and they may be worse in the morning or when you bend over. Seizures are another key warning—shaking, staring, or blacking out for no reason. If the tumor is pressing on the movement area, one arm or leg may feel weak... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Brain Tumors

A brain tumor is any abnormal growth of cells inside the skull. Because the brain controls so many functions, the first clues can show up almost anywhere in the body. Symptoms usually start mild and build over weeks to months, but they can also appear suddenly if the tumor bleeds or blocks fluid flow. The most common early sign is a new headache that does not feel like your usual headaches. It is often dull, steady, and worse in the morning or when you bend over. Vision may blur or double, and you might find yourself bumping into doorframes because... Learn more