Care of Patients with Problems of the Central Nervous System: The Brain

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts related to the central nervous system, focusing on migraines, seizures, meningitis, and treatment options.

Migraine

Recurrent episodic attacks of head pain that can be throbbing and unilateral, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light, sound, or head movement.

Migraine Triggers

Factors that can precipitate a migraine attack, including caffeine, alcohol, stress, and hormonal changes.

Aura

A sensory phenomenon that signals the onset of a headache or seizure, often includes visual disturbances like flashing lights.

Abortive Drug Therapy

Medications used to relieve migraine pain once it has started, including acetaminophen and triptans.

Preventative Therapy

Treatment modalities aimed at reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, such as beta-blockers and antiepileptics.

Intracranial Pressure (ICP)

The pressure exerted by the cranium on the brain tissue, typically maintained at less than 10-15 mmHg.

Increased Intracranial Pressure

An elevation in ICP, often due to head injury, that can lead to serious complications like brain herniation.

Seizure

An abnormal, sudden, excessive, uncontrollable electrical discharge of neurons resulting in a change in level of consciousness.

Epilepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by two or more seizures experienced by a person.

Phase of Seizures

The categorized stages of seizure activity, including preictal (before the seizure), ictal (during the seizure), and postictal (after the seizure).

Meningitis

An inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by viral or bacterial infection.

Signs of Meningitis

Symptoms that may indicate meningitis, including fever, headache, nausea, and neck stiffness.

Laboratory Assessment of Meningitis

Diagnostic tests like CSF analysis and CT scans used to confirm meningitis.

Drug Therapy for Meningitis

Treatment options, including antibiotics and steroids, aimed at managing meningitis.

Encephalitis

An inflammation of the brain tissue, which can be caused by infection and may affect various brain regions.