Various diseases of the nervous system can have severe consequences, altering movement, sensitivity, cognition, and other vital functions. However, the type of condition will depend on which components of the nervous system are affected.
The nervous system is a complex network that regulates and coordinates the human body’s functions, and it is divided into two main components: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
Central nervous system
The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord. It acts as the control center of the body, receiving sensory information, processing it, and sending commands to the rest of the body to coordinate responses.
This system is protected by the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid, which acts as a cushion; however, its vulnerability to injury and disease can lead to severe dysfunctions.
Peripheral nervous system
The peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system with the rest of the body. It consists of nerves that extend from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, organs, and tissues.
It is further divided into two main parts: the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary actions such as moving the arms or walking, and also collects sensory information from the environment; and the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary functions such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion.
The peripheral nervous system is essential for two-way communication between the central nervous system and the body, but it is also susceptible to damage that can cause debilitating diseases.
Most common nervous system diseases
Given the complexity of both the central and peripheral nervous systems, there are multiple nervous system diseases, each with specific causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Some of the most common central nervous system diseases include:
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- Stroke (cerebrovascular event): caused by interruption of blood flow to the brain.
- Multiple sclerosis: an autoimmune disease that damages the myelin of neurons.
- Epilepsy: a disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
- Parkinson’s disease: progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons.
- Dementias: neurodegenerative disorders affecting memory, thinking, and behavior.
- Stroke (cerebrovascular event): caused by interruption of blood flow to the brain.
Some of the most common peripheral nervous system diseases include:
- Peripheral neuropathy: damage to peripheral nerves causing pain, weakness, and numbness.
- Guillain-Barré syndrome: an autoimmune disease that attacks peripheral nerves.
- Herniated disc: nerve compression due to displacement of an intervertebral disc.
- Myasthenia gravis: an autoimmune disorder affecting communication between nerves and muscles.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: severe chronic facial pain due to impairment of the trigeminal nerve.
Nervous system diseases can range from mild conditions to severe or even fatal. Proper understanding of the structure and function of both the central and peripheral nervous systems is essential for the effective diagnosis and management of these pathologies.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
Cigna, Kern Pharma, Kids Health
