The nervous system is a complex network of neurons and their connections that allows an organism to interact with its environment. There are two primary types of nervous systems: the brain and the spinal cord. The brain is responsible for thinking, feeling and controlling the body, while the spinal cord controls movement and sensation below the neck.
The Anatomy of the Brain and Spinal Cord
The brain is composed of billions of cells that communicate with each other using electricity and chemicals called neurotransmitters. The spinal cord is a long, thin tube that runs from the brain to the spinal column. The spinal cord carries information between the brain and the body’s muscles and organs.
Functions of the Brain and Spinal Cord
The brain and spinal cord are two different organs that work together to control movement. The brain is responsible for thinking, feeling, and controlling the body. The spinal cord helps control movement by sending messages to the muscles and sending information from the muscles to the brain.
Disorders of the Brain and Spinal Cord
The nervous system is composed of the brain and the spinal cord. The brain is located in the skull and controls all the activities of the body below it. The spinal cord connects the brain to the body’s muscles and organs. Disorders of either can lead to a variety of symptoms.
The brain and spinal cord are both subject to injury. A fall on your head can cause a concussion, which can injure the brain. A blow to the spine can cause spinal cord damage, which can lead to paralysis or other serious injuries.
There are many ways that a person’s nervous system can be damaged. Some of the most common disorders are listed below:
Concussion
Spinal Cord Injury
Parkinson’s Disease
Multiple Sclerosis
Each disorder has its own set of symptoms. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have a disorder of the brain or spinal cord, consult a doctor.
Treatment for Disorders of the Brain and Spinal Cord
Most disorders of the brain and spinal cord can be treated with medication, surgery, or a combination of the two. Disorders that affect movement or communication can often be corrected through physical therapy and speech therapy.
Primary disorders of the brain and spinal cord:
1) Stroke: A blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain is what causes strokes. A ruptured artery in the brain is the most typical cause of stroke. When this happens, blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to damage to parts of the brain. There are many different types of strokes, and each one has a different cause and presenting symptoms. Treatment for a stroke depends on the severity of symptoms. In some cases, treatment may only involve taking care of the patient’s basic needs such as providing food and drink and monitoring their breathing. However, if a significant portion of the brain has suffered damage, treatment may involve using tools like an artificial pacemaker or a device that aids in restoring blood flow to the area.
2) Traumatic Brain Injury: An accident or assault that results in a traumatic brain injury (TBI)