Medical Neurology Lecture Review

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards focused on key concepts related to medical neurology, neuroanatomy, and patient care discussions.

Neuro

Refers to the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

CNS

Central Nervous System; comprises the brain and spinal cord.

PNS

Peripheral Nervous System; consists of spinal and cranial nerves.

Neuron

A nerve cell that transmits signals between the brain and other body parts.

Motor Nerves

Nerves that carry signals from the brain to muscles.

Sensory Nerves

Nerves that carry signals from sensory receptors to the brain.

Anatomy of the Brain

Study of the structure of the brain and its parts.

Physiology of the Brain

Study of how the brain functions.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance.

Thalamus

Brain structure that relays sensory impulses.

Hypothalamus

Brain region controlling body temperature, hunger, and thirst.

Pituitary Gland

Endocrine gland that regulates various body functions.

Spinal Cord

Long bundle of nerves that carries signals to and from the brain.

Vertebrae

Bones that form the spinal column and protect the spinal cord.

Tracks

Neuronal pathways that connect different parts of the nervous system.

Upper Motor Neurons

Neurons that originate in the brain and control motor function.

Cranial Nerves

Twelve pairs of nerves that arise directly from the brain.

Stroke

Interruption of the blood supply to the brain.

Circle of Willis

An arterial structure at the base of the brain.

Aorta

The largest artery in the body, supplying blood to the circulatory system.

Frontal Lobe

Brain region associated with behavior, movement, and decision-making.

Temporal Lobe

Brain region involved in language and auditory processing.

Occipital Lobe

Brain region that processes visual information.

Parietal Lobe

Brain region responsible for sensory integration and spatial awareness.

Seizure

Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.

Generalized Seizure

A seizure that affects both sides of the brain.

Focal Seizure

A seizure affecting only one specific area of the brain.

Tonic-Seizure

A seizure characterized by muscle stiffness.

Clonic-Seizure

A seizure characterized by rhythmic jerking of body parts.

Absence Seizure

A brief loss of consciousness, often mistaken for daydreaming.

Aphasia

Language disorder affecting speaking and understanding.

Aura

A perceptual disturbance experienced before a seizure.

Postictal Stage

Recovery phase following a seizure.

Status Epilepticus

A prolonged seizure or series of seizures without recovery.

Electrical Firing

Neuronal activity leading to communication in the brain.

Medulla

Part of the brainstem involved in autonomic functions.

Medication for Seizures

Drugs used to prevent or control seizures.

Suction

Device used to clear the airway during a seizure.

Seizure Precautions

Measures taken to prevent injury during seizures.

Tension Headache

A headache caused by muscle tension in the neck and scalp.

Migraine Headache

A type of headache characterized by severe pain, often accompanied by nausea.

Cluster Headache

Intense headaches occurring in clusters, often affecting one side of the head.

Vasodilation

The dilation of blood vessels, often occurring during migraines.

Nursing Interventions for Headaches

Actions taken to relieve headache symptoms.

Electrolyte Imbalances

Disruptions in the levels of minerals in the body.

Head Injury

Damage to the head that can lead to seizures.

Preventive Measures for Seizures

Strategies or medications used to prevent seizures.

Traumatic Event

An injury or shock to the body, which may trigger seizures.

Cerebral Blood Flow

Blood circulation in the brain, crucial for its function.

Conduction

The process of transmitting signals through neurons.

Behavioral Symptoms

Changes in behavior caused by brain injuries.

Visual Processing

The interpretation of visual signals by the occipital lobe.

Neurology

The branch of medicine that deals with the nervous system.

Status Asthmaticus

A life-threatening asthma condition that requires immediate treatment.

Neurological Assessment

Evaluation to determine the status of the nervous system.

Cerebral Cortex

Outer layer of the brain involved in complex functions.

Medication Side Effects

Unwanted effects of medications, including those used for headaches.

Patient Education

Information provided to patients regarding their health.

Reflexes

Responses to stimuli that involve the nervous system.

Restoration of Normal Function

The goal of medical interventions following neurological issues.

Somatic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that controls voluntary movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that controls involuntary functions.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across synapses in the nervous system.

Pain Threshold

The level of stimulus needed to perceive pain.

Fatigue

A common result of seizures, leading to drowsiness and confusion.

Cognitive Impairment

Difficulties with thinking, learning, and memory often associated with brain injuries.

Neurogenic Shock

A life-threatening condition due to the loss of sympathetic nervous system signals.

Cognitive Behavioral Techniques

Therapies aimed at changing patterns of thinking or behavior.

Preventative Health Care

Measures taken to prevent health issues, including neurological disorders.

Lifestyle Modifications

Changes in habits or routines to improve health outcomes.

Chronic Conditions

Long-term health issues that require ongoing management.

Treatment Plan

Strategy developed to manage a patient's illness or condition.