Neurological System

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the neurological system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the Brain and Spinal Cord; responsible for processing and transmitting information.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes all neurons outside the CNS; responsible for transmitting information to and from the CNS.

Cerebrum

Largest part of the brain, divided into left and right hemispheres; involved in higher-order functions.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain that controls balance, muscle coordination, and voluntary movements.

Medulla Oblongata

Part of the brainstem that regulates involuntary activities such as breathing and heartbeat.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, providing cushioning and nutrient exchange.

Neurons

Nerve cells that transmit impulses throughout the nervous system.

Sensory Neurons

Neurons that carry signals from the sensory receptors to the central nervous system.

Motor Neurons

Neurons that carry signals away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary muscle movements and conveys sensory information to the CNS.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and digestion.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Prepares the body for 'fight or flight' response during stressful situations.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Promotes 'rest and digest' functions, calming the body after stress.

Thalamus

Relay station for sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the brain.

Hypothalamus

Regulates homeostasis, including temperature, hunger, and circadian rhythms.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Scale used to assess consciousness and neurological functioning based on eye, verbal, and motor responses.

Babinski Reflex

Reflex response where the big toe extends when the sole of the foot is stimulated; normal in infants.

Multiple Sclerosis

Chronic progressive disease that attacks the myelin sheath, affecting nerve signal transmission.

Parkinson’s Disease

Progressive neurological disorder characterized by motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Seizures

Abnormal electrical discharges in the brain that can alter consciousness, motor function, or behavior.

Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP)

Condition where pressure within the skull increases, potentially leading to brain injury.

Meningitis

Inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often due to infection.

Autonomic Dysreflexia

A condition seen in patients with spinal cord injuries, leading to dangerously high blood pressure.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway involved in the reflex action, bypassing the brain for faster response.