Nervous System Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the nervous system, including classifications and functions of its components.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Made up of the brain and spinal cord; the body's processing center.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord; sends information to and from the CNS.

Somatic Nervous System

Component of the PNS responsible for voluntary control of body movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that controls involuntary functions, such as heart rate and digestion.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, controlling muscle functions, speech, thought, emotions, and learning.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain that coordinates and regulates muscular activity.

Medulla Oblongata

Continuation of the spinal cord in the skull, controlling involuntary functions like heart and breathing.

Spinal Cord

Bundle of nerve fibers that connects the body to the brain, forming the CNS.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Network of nerves that activates the 'fight-or-flight' response during stress.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Division of the autonomic nervous system that controls 'rest-and-digest' functions.

Cerebral Vasular Accident (CVA)

also known as a stroke or brain attack. It occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage and loss of function.

Epilepsy

also known as a seizure disorder — is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, characterized by the destruction of myelin sheaths surrounding nerve fibers, leading to various neurological symptoms.

Neuralgia

A type of pain that occurs due to irritation or damage to a nerve, often felt in the area served by that nerve.

Paralysis

the loss of ability to move one or more muscles in the body, which can result from damage to the nervous system.