Neuro part 1

Nervous System

Receives, processes, and transmits sensory information and responses.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Processes information; involves the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Transmits impulses between CNS and peripheral tissues.

Somatic Nervous System

Regulates voluntary activities.

Afferent Nerves

Carry sensory impulses to the CNS.

Efferent Nerves

Carry motor impulses to effector organs.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary activities.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Controls 'fight or flight' responses.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Controls 'rest and digest' functions.

Neuron

Method of communication between cells through action potentials.

Electrical Synapse

Current-carrying ions pass through gap junctions between cells.

Chemical Synapse

Action potentials trigger neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals, influencing postsynaptic receptors.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers whose actions depend on the receptor they bind to.

Glial Cells

Supporting cells that protect and provide metabolic support for neurons.

Blood-Brain Barrier

Protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood.

Cerebrum

Largest part of the brain responsible for complex thought and motor function.

Cerebral Cortex

Outer layer of the cerebrum involved in higher brain functions.

Broca's Area

Region in the frontal lobe responsible for speech production.

Wernicke's Area

Region in the temporal lobe involved in language comprehension.

Limbic System

Involved in memory and emotion regulation.

Thalamus

Integrates signals traveling between the cortex and brainstem.

Hypothalamus

Regulates hormones, sleep, hunger, and body temperature.

Cerebellum

Coordinates smooth movement, posture, and balance.

Meninges

Protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Cerebrospinal Fluid

Circulates around the brain and spinal cord providing cushioning and support.

Intracranial Pressure (ICP)

Pressure within the skull that can affect brain health.

Hypoxia

Inadequate oxygen supply to the brain.

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

Also known as stroke; can be ischemic or hemorrhagic.

Ischemic Stroke

Caused by blood flow obstruction due to clots or atherosclerosis.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Occurs due to bleeding in the brain.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain.

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.

Seizure

A sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.

Epileptic Seizure

Recurrent, unprovoked seizures without identifiable causes.

Provoked Seizure

Seizures triggered by identifiable causes.

Tonic Phase

Stage of seizure characterized by extreme muscle contraction.

Clonic Phase

Stage of seizure with rhythmic jerking movements.

Aura

Sensory phenomena experienced before a seizure.

Generalized Seizure

Starts simultaneously in both hemispheres of the brain.

Focal Seizure

Starts in one hemisphere and can spread to the other.

Status Epilepticus

A prolonged seizure or series of seizures without recovery of consciousness.

Aphasia

Impairment of language ability.

Hemiplegia

Paralysis of one side of the body.

Inferior Vena Cava

Large vein that carries deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Aneurysm

A bulge in a blood vessel due to weakness in the vessel wall.

Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)

A congenital condition characterized by direct connections between arteries and veins.

Monroe-Kellie Doctrine

The principle that the total volume of intracranial contents remains constant.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure.

Ataxia

Loss of control of body movements.

Sensory Deficits

Loss of normal sensory function.

Impaired Consciousness

Reduced awareness or responsiveness.

Contralateral Symptoms

Symptoms that occur on the opposite side of the body from the site of brain damage.

Neglect Syndrome

A lack of awareness of one side of the body.

Post-Ictal State

The altered state of consciousness after a seizure.

Cognitive Functions

Mental processes involved in gaining knowledge and comprehension.

Electrolytes

Minerals in the body fluids essential for health.

What is neuroplasticity and its significance?

Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, crucial for recovery from injuries.

How do neurotransmitters affect mood?

Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine play key roles in regulating mood and emotions.

What role does the thalamus play in sensory processing?

The thalamus acts as a relay station, integrating and transmitting sensory signals to the cerebral cortex.

How does the sympathetic nervous system prepare the body for action?

The sympathetic nervous system triggers the 'fight or flight' response, increasing heart rate and energy availability.

What is the difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes?

Ischemic strokes are caused by blockages, while hemorrhagic strokes occur due to bleeding in the brain.

What is the impact of impaired consciousness on daily life?

Impaired consciousness reduces a person's awareness and responsiveness, affecting their ability to interact and function.

How does the blood-brain barrier protect the brain?

The blood-brain barrier filters substances, preventing harmful agents from entering the brain tissue.

What is ataxia and its effects on movement?

Ataxia is a lack of coordination and control over body movements, often impacting balance and walking.

What characterizes aphasia and its impact on communication?

Aphasia is an impairment in language ability, affecting speech, comprehension, and writing skills.

How can neglect syndrome manifest in individuals?

Neglect syndrome causes individuals to lack awareness of one side of their body, impacting their interaction with their environment.