NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that carry messages to and from the brain
and spinal cord to various parts of the body. The proper functioning of these nerves ensures that each
organ system, such as the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune systems, can adequately
communicate with one another.

FUNCTION OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. including internal
organs. In this way. the nervous system's activity controls the ability to move, breathe, see, think, and
more.

2 MAIN DIVISIONS OF NERVOUS SYSTEM

01 CNS: The Control Center

02 PNS: The Messenger

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS)

also known as "The Control Center" The CNS is likened to the body's control center, processing
information and issuing commands. Its components, the brain and spinal cord, are protected by the skull
and vertebral column, respectively. The CNS, containing the brain and spinal cord, represents the
mainframe of human intelligence, emotion, and consciousness. It is where sensations are interpreted,
where memories are stored, and where thoughts are born.

PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (PNS)

• also known as "The Messenger"

The PNS consists of sensory and motor neurons that relay information from the body to the CNS and
back, ensuring a constant flow of communication and coordination throughout the body. The PNS has
two main parts: the

somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements, and the autonomic nervous system,
which governs involuntary functions. This division highlights the nervous system's dual nature -
conscious control and automatic regulation,

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (ENS)

Brain

The seat of cognitive capabilities and the center for processing sensory information. Its structure is
divided into specialized areas, each with a unique function.

The brain is the command center of the body, responsible for processing information, controlling
thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, regulating bodily functions, and coordinating movement.

Cerebrum

The largest part responsible for complex cognitive tasks like reasoning, emotions, and learning

The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is responsible for higher brain functions such as
thinking, memory, emotions, and voluntary muscle movements.

Cerebellum

Controls motor functions and is involved in some cognitive functions like attention and language.

The cerebellum plays a crucial role in coordinating voluntary movements, balance, posture, and motor
learning. It helps maintain smooth and coordinated muscle movements.

Brainstem

Connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

The brainstem controls basic life functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It also
serves as a pathway for nerve signals traveling between the brain and the rest of the body, facilitating
essential bodily functions and survival.

Spinal Cord

The primary conduit for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. It also
coordinates reflexes and simple response mechanisms.
31 Pairs of Nerves

Emerging from the spinal cord and connecting to the body.

100m Neurons

Estimated number in the human spinal cord.

PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (PNS)

Somatic Nervous System

1 It is a part of the PNS associated with voluntary control of body movements through the action of
skeletal muscles

Controls voluntary movements and processes sensory information from the body's external
environment. It allows you to interact with the world consciously, enabling activities like walking,
talking, and picking up objects.

Sensory Input

Transmits sensory information from the skin, joints, and muscles to the CNS.

Sensory input involves receiving information from sensory receptors in the body, such as touch,
temperature, pain, and proprioception. This information is crucial for awareness, perception, and
responding to the environment appropriately.

Motor Output

Transmits motor signals from the CNS to the skeletal muscles.

Motor output involves transmitting signals from the brain and spinal cord to muscles and glands,
enabling movement and physiological responses. It allows us to perform daily activities, express
emotions, and regulate bodily functions like heart rate and digestion.

Reflex Arcs

Integrates sensory and motor actions without direct involvement of the brain in reflexive actions.

Reflex arcs are automatic, rapid responses to stimuli that help protect the body from potential harm.
They allow for quick reactions without involving conscious thought, helping prevent injuries and
maintain bodily safety. Reflex arcs also help maintain posture and balance.
AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSYTEM

It is a component of the PNS that acts largely unconsciously to regulate bodily functions, including heart
rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, urination, and sexual arousal.

Sympathetic

Prepares the body for intense physical activity and is often referred to as the fight-flight system

Activation of the sympathetic system helps the body respond quickly to perceived threats, enhancing
alertness, increasing energy levels, and improving physical performance during emergencies.

Parasympathetic

Conserves energy as it slows the heart rate, increases intestinal and gland activity, and relaxes sphincter
muscles

The parasympathetic system helps the body recover from stress, promotes digestion and nutrient
absorption, lowers heart rate to maintain a steady state, and supports overall well-being by conserving
energy and promoting restful activities like sleep.

INTERACTIONS OF NERVOUS SYSTEM WITH OTHER ORGAN SYSTEMS

Circulatory System

-regulates heart rate and bleed vessel constriction/dilation

Respiratory System

-controls the rate and depth of os breathing, as well as the distribution of blood flow

Endocrine System

-influences hormone release from endocrine glands nds to ta regulate various bodily functions

Digestive System

-regulates digestive processes, such as peristalsis and enzyme secretion

-contrals bladder function and urination reflexes

Skeletal System

-coordinates voluntary and reflexive muscle movements

Reproductive System

-influences reproductive behaviors and hormarul balance

Immune System

-modulates immune responses and infiammation

COMMON DISORDERS

HEADACHES

A headache is a common medical condition charecterized by pain or discomfort in the head or neck
region, it involves the nervous system, as the pain signals are processed and interpreted by the brain.

EPILEPSY

• Epilepsy to a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovked seizures. The nervous

DEMENTIA

-Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive function. It is not a specific disease but
rather a syndrome characterized by a gradual loss of memory, thinking, language, judgment, and
reasoning skills. It is associated with the nervous system because it primarily affects cognitive functions,
which are controlled by the brain.
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

• Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the brain,
leading to cognitive decline and memory loss. It impacts various regions of the nervous system, including
the cerebral cortex (responsible for thinking, reasoning, and memory), hippocampus (involved in
forming new memories), and other areas crucial for cognitive function.

INTERESTING FACTS