INTERNAL MEDICINE DEPARTMENT
The Internal Medicine Department at Bangkok Hospital Khao Yai provides comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and preventive healthcare services for patients aged 15 years and above. Our physicians use modern diagnostic tools to ensure accurate detection and effective management of both acute and chronic diseases, supported by General Medicine, Rheumatologist, Neurology Medicine as well as a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
General Medicine
Common diseases found in the elderly include osteoarthritis, vascular diseases, dementia, depression, urinary tract disorders, and hypertension. Hypertension, in particular, is one of the most common chronic conditions that can cause serious damage to blood vessels if left untreated. It can lead to conditions such as arteriosclerosis, aneurysms, and potentially dangerous complications such as heart attacks, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, strokes, and paralysis.
To help the elderly cope with health issues associated with aging and to ensure they can live a long and happy life, our general internists are available to provide advice, consultation, and comprehensive healthcare for seniors with expertise to achieve effective treatment outcomes.
Allergies can present symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, itching, chest tightness, and reactions to insect bites or even food. These symptoms indicate that the body’s immune system is reacting to allergens that typically would not affect most people. If you suspect you have an allergy, it’s important to seek a diagnosis quickly, as some allergies can cause acute and severe reactions. Identifying the true cause is essential for proper treatment and avoiding exposure to allergens.
Rheumatology (Joint and Autoimmune Diseases)
Joint pain and arthritis can occur in people of all ages and genders. There are many possible causes, including aging, injury, repetitive use, infection, autoimmune disorders, and many others. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an appropriate and effective treatment plan.
Neurology (Brain and Nervous System Disorders)
Our neurology specialists provide diagnosis and treatment for disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles for below conditions:
- Stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic)
- Dementia and memory disorders
- Migraine and chronic headaches
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Epilepsy
- Neuropathy (nerve inflammation)
- Muscle weakness
- Sleep disorders (insomnia)
- Brain tumors
- Central nervous system infections
Stroke Care
Stroke is a medical emergency caused by blocked or ruptured blood vessels in the brain, resulting in loss of oxygen and lead to brain cell death. Immediate medical attention is critical to reduce severity of brain damage and to prevent complications and disability which may occur in the future.
Acute and severe symptoms of dizziness or headache often occur along with other signs such as walking difficulties, imbalance, altered consciousness, or confusion, and feelings of lightheadedness or nausea. Vision problems may also arise, such as sudden blurred vision or double vision in one or both eyes. Other symptoms include a sudden drooping corner of the mouth, sudden weakness or numbness in one arm or leg, especially on one side of the body (such as the face, arms, or legs). There may also be difficulty speaking clearly, inability to speak, or trouble understanding others’ words. The patient might feel confused, disoriented, or have trouble comprehending what people are saying to them.
Health care for patients involves living a health-conscious lifestyle. This includes controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, and having regular health check-ups. These practices are the best way to reduce the risk factors for various diseases.
Headache Disorders
Headaches from Muscle Tension: These headaches feel like pressure, squeezing, or tightness around the head. The pain typically starts at the base of the skull and radiates to both temples, neck, shoulders, and sometimes the scalp, which may be tender to the touch. The headache usually lasts for more than 30 minutes and is commonly seen in people who are stressed, angry, or fatigued.
Migraines: Migraine pain typically occurs on one side of the head, sometimes radiating to the eye, and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The pain can worsen with bright lights, strong odors, or exposure to sound. Some people may experience “aura” symptoms before the headache, such as seeing flashing lights or blurry vision. Migraine pain can last for hours or even days.
Cluster Headaches: This rare type of headache is most common in men aged 20-40 and typically affects one side of the head or face, particularly behind the deep eye socket. Symptoms may include red eyes, tears, and a stuffy nose on the same side. The pain can be triggered by alcohol consumption, travel, or altitude changes.
Sinus Headaches: These occur when the sinus cavities become infected, causing a dull, heavy pain in the forehead, around the eyes, cheekbones, or the bridge of the nose. The pain may worsen when bending over or changing positions. It is often accompanied by nasal congestion and a runny nose.
Headaches due to Brain Abnormalities: These headaches tend to worsen progressively and can become severe. They are caused by increasing pressure within the skull due to growing abnormal masses or conditions. The pain is usually deep within the head and is accompanied by neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, swallowing problems, reduced hearing, projectile vomiting, confusion, or even loss of consciousness.
Headaches from Jaw Inflammation: These headaches occur due to inflammation in the jaw, and the pain may affect one or both sides of the face. It is often related to chewing or grinding teeth while sleeping. Patients may also hear a clicking sound when moving the jaw or opening the mouth, which may radiate to the ear area.
Treatment
Doctors will conduct a thorough medical history and perform a physical and neurological exam. Additional tests may be ordered to help diagnose the cause of the headache, such as blood tests, X-rays, a plain skull X-ray to check the sinuses and bone structure, or a CT scan of the brain. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended for more detailed imaging. In certain instances, contrast dye may be used to enhance the imaging. Other tests may include a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) if there is suspicion of meningitis or bleeding in the spinal canal, or an EEG (electroencephalogram) if there are concerns about brain activity abnormalities.
Anyone experiencing frequent or unusual headaches should consult a neurologist for proper evaluation and diagnosis. It is important not to ignore headache symptoms, as they could be warning signs of serious underlying conditions.
Neurosurgery
The brain is the body’s control center, and any abnormality can significantly affect movement, cognition, and quality of life. Our Neurosurgery Team provides advanced surgical care for conditions involving the brain and nervous system.
Conditions and Treatments:
- Brain surgery for tumors and trauma
- Head injuries
- Vascular neurosurgery for brain vessel abnormalities
- Cerebral aneurysms
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVM)
Diagnostic Technology:
- CT Scan (Computerized Tomography)
- MRI / MRA (Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Angiography)
- Cerebral Angiography (Brain Vessel Imaging)
