neurological

Step 7: Neurological System

Overview

  • A neurologist is a medical doctor specializing in the nervous system.

  • The neurological system is a collection of cells, tissues, and organs that regulate responses to stimuli.

  • Functions similarly to a computer's CPU, processing incoming messages and determining actions.

Functionality

  • Basic Functions:

    • Collects information from sensory receptors.

    • Analyzes this information.

    • Integrates information from various sources.

    • Responds with an action.

Components of the Nervous System

Central Nervous System (CNS)

  • Comprises the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

  • Includes nerves from the brain to the face and from the spinal cord to the rest of the body.

  • Contains sensory organs and peripheral nerves.

Neurons and Messaging

  • Neurons transmit signals within the CNS and to the PNS.

  • Messages include:

    • External environmental information (temperature, light).

    • Internal organ and tissue status.

    • Communication occurs using chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.

Types of Nerve Fibers

  • Afferent Fibers:

    • Transmit sensory impulses from receptors back to the CNS.

  • Efferent Fibers:

    • Send signals from the CNS to skeletal muscles and glands.

Key Terminology

  • ABR: Auditory brainstem response

  • LP: Lumbar puncture

  • ALS: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

  • CNS: Central nervous system

  • MS: Multiple sclerosis

  • TBI: Traumatic brain injury

  • CVA: Cerebrovascular accident

  • TENS: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

  • Sz: Seizure

  • And other relevant terms.

Neurological Disorders

What Can Go Wrong

Stroke and TIA

  • Stroke (CVA):

    • Sudden death of brain cells due to oxygen deprivation from disrupted blood flow.

  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA):

    • Temporary neurological issues without permanent damage, akin to mini-strokes.

    • May indicate risk for a full stroke.

Paralysis Types

  • Hemiplegia: Paralysis of one side of the body.

  • Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four extremities.

  • Paraplegia: Paralysis of both legs.

  • Monoplegia: Paralysis of one limb.

Other Neurological Conditions

  • Epilepsy:

    • Characterized by uncontrolled electrical discharges causing seizures and altered consciousness.

  • Parkinson's Disease:

    • Progressive movement disorder linked to deficient dopamine.

  • Alzheimer's Disease:

    • Progressive decline in cognitive functions, memory loss, and changes in personality.