Overview of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems (Physiology)

Ventricles

Cavities that produce and contain CSF.

Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid bathing the brain, cushioning and nourishing.

Hydrocephalus

Condition of excess CSF causing increased ICP.

Hypoxia

Condition of low oxygen levels in the body.

Hypoglycemia

Condition of low blood sugar levels.

Electrolytes

Ions in solution essential for bodily functions.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Injury to the brain from external force.

Ischemia

Restriction of blood supply to tissues.

Hemorrhage

Escape of blood from ruptured blood vessel.

Hematoma

Localized bleeding outside blood vessels.

Thrombus

Clot that forms and remains in place.

Embolus

Clot that travels through the bloodstream.

Aneurysm

Weak bulge in the wall of a blood vessel.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Brief episode of neurological dysfunction, <5 min.

Corticospinal Tract

Descending tract controlling voluntary motor functions.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons.

Dermatome

Skin area supplied by a single spinal nerve.

Myotome

Muscles innervated by a specific spinal segment.

Sciatic Nerve

Major nerve supplying the lower limb.

Cutaneous Innervation

Skin area supplied by a specific peripheral nerve.

Muscular Innervation

Muscles supplied by specific peripheral nerves.

Cerebral Cortex

Largest brain region, responsible for higher functions.

Basal Nuclei

Group of nuclei involved in motor control.

Thalamus

Relay center for sensory information to the cortex.

Hypothalamus

Regulates homeostasis, hunger, thirst, and emotions.

Pituitary Gland

Endocrine gland releasing hormones for body regulation.

Midbrain

Part of brainstem, involved in motor control.

Pons

Connects cerebellum to brainstem, regulates respiration.

Medulla Oblongata

Controls vital functions like heart rate and breathing.

Cerebellum

Coordinates movement and balance; affected by alcohol.