Pathology - nervous system

Question 1

Alzheimer’s disease

Answer 1

• causes: degenerative brain disease (genetic/environmental)
• sx: confusion, memory loss, impaired judgment, personality change, worsens over time
• tx: phyiscal activity, socialization, med to slow progression, no cure

Question 2

Bell’s palsy

Answer 2

• causes: unknown
• sx: weakness/paralysis of facial muscles, facial numbness/dropping, headache
• tx: NSAIDs, pain relievers, usually self-resolving

Question 3

Seizures

Answer 3

• causes: birth truama, infections, brain injury, head trauma, drug withdrawal
• sx: uncontrolled muscle contractions, loss of consciousness, visual distrubrances
• tx: med, brain surgery

Question 4

Meningitis

Answer 4

• causes: bacterial, viral, fungal infection causing inflammation of the meninges
• sx: stiff neck, headache, fever, vomiting
• tx: appropriate meds for type, bacterial can be fatal

Question 5

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Answer 5

• causes: viral, genetic, immune system dysfunction
• sx: loss of ability to speak/walk, double vision, loss of balance, weakness in arms/legs
• tx: supportive meds to slow progression, no cure

Question 6

Parkinson’s disease

Answer 6

• causes: lack of neurotransmitters, brain tumors, drugs, head trauma
• sx: arm/leg muscle and joint stiffness, lack of coordination, tremor
• tx: supportive meds to slow progression, no cure

Question 7

Stroke

Answer 7

• causes: blockage of artery in neck or brain
• sx: paralysis, confusion, memory impairment, some symptoms can be permanet
• tx: PT, occupational therapy, speech therapy

Question 8

Migraine headache

Answer 8

• causes: hormones, stress, dietary, familial
• sx: dull to throbbing head pain, sensitivtiy to light/sound, nausea, vomiting, visual aura
• tx: meds, alternative methods (acupuncture, biofeedback, magnesium)