Nervous System
The nervous system is the body's communication network, responsible for transmitting signals
between different parts of the body.
It is divided into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, which process and integrate sensory information.
The PNS includes sensory and motor neurons that connect the CNS to the rest of the body.
Neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system, consisting of dendrites, a cell body,
and an axon.
Functions of the nervous system include:
- Sensory Input: Detects changes in the environment.
- Integration: Processes sensory information and determines responses.
- Motor Output: Sends signals to muscles and glands to produce a response.
The brain is divided into the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem, each with distinct functions.
The spinal cord is a cylindrical structure that transmits signals between the brain and the body.
Common nervous system conditions include:
- Stroke: A disruption in blood flow to the brain.
- Epilepsy: A disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
- Neuropathy: Damage to peripheral nerves causing pain or numbness.
The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion.
Reflex arcs are simple pathways that produce automatic responses to stimuli.
Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine play a crucial role in
communication between neurons.
The nervous system is the body's communication network, responsible for transmitting signals
between different parts of the body.
It is divided into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, which process and integrate sensory information.
The PNS includes sensory and motor neurons that connect the CNS to the rest of the body.
Neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system, consisting of dendrites, a cell body,
and an axon.
Functions of the nervous system include:
- Sensory Input: Detects changes in the environment.
- Integration: Processes sensory information and determines responses.
- Motor Output: Sends signals to muscles and glands to produce a response.
The brain is divided into the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem, each with distinct functions.
The spinal cord is a cylindrical structure that transmits signals between the brain and the body.
Common nervous system conditions include:
- Stroke: A disruption in blood flow to the brain.
- Epilepsy: A disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
- Neuropathy: Damage to peripheral nerves causing pain or numbness.
The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion.
Reflex arcs are simple pathways that produce automatic responses to stimuli.
Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine play a crucial role in
communication between neurons.