A 23-year-old young man in Hunan became addicted to online games, spending more than ten hours a day in internet cafes. Two weeks ago, he suddenly experienced back pain that made it difficult for him to stand up straight, which eventually progressed to numbness and weakness in his lower limbs, almost leading to paralysis.
According to a report from the Hunan Daily on December 5th, the young man was taken to a hospital in Changsha for treatment, where he was diagnosed with tuberculosis of the 7th and 8th thoracic vertebrae, but fortunately, he did not completely become paralyzed. After undergoing surgery and treatment for tuberculosis, liver protection, and rehabilitation, the back pain has significantly subsided, and with the support of braces, he is now able to move around on his feet.
The spine surgeon at the hospital mentioned that when tuberculosis is mentioned, most people first think of pulmonary tuberculosis. However, tuberculosis bacteria can also spread to various organs in the body through blood or the lymphatic system, causing extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The young man’s case is a typical example of bone tuberculosis. When tuberculosis bacteria spread to the spinal canal, it can result in varying degrees of sensory and motor dysfunction. Spinal lesions caused by tuberculosis not only lead to bone destruction and necrosis but can also cause the vertebrae to collapse, resulting in spinal curvature, prominent spinous processes, and in severe cases, even paralysis.
Doctors believe that prolonged stays in internet cafes may have been the main cause of the young man developing thoracic spine tuberculosis.
They pointed out that spending long hours in internet cafes, staying up late, having irregular meals, lack of exercise, and decreased immune system can contribute to such health issues. Additionally, the enclosed environment of internet cafes with poor air circulation allows tuberculosis bacteria to remain suspended in the air for extended periods, leading to infections in individuals.
The news of the “young man addicted to the internet almost paralyzed” has shocked many netizens, with some expressing, “It’s frightening that addiction to games can lead to tuberculosis,” “Regretting a lifetime after years of indulgence,” “Too scared to play anymore,” and “Time to kick the internet addiction.”