Nervous System Flashcards
(20 cards)
What structures are included in the nervous system?
Brain, spinal cord, nerves, and sensory organs (eyes, ears, nose, skin, and tongue).
How does the nervous system connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body?
Through nerves.
What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?
- Central Nervous System (CNS) – brain and spinal cord; 2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) – all the nerves outside the CNS.
What is the Central Nervous System (CNS)?
The brain and spinal cord.
What is the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)?
All the nerves outside the CNS.
What are the main functions of the nervous system?
Sends and processes information from inside and outside the body, controls body functions and movement, and how we react.
Which senses is the nervous system involved in?
Vision, smell, hearing, touch, and taste.
Name three common nervous system conditions.
Multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease.
Who is a specialist that treats diseases of the nervous system?
A neurologist.
What is the basic structure of the nervous system?
Made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves throughout the body.
How does the nervous system send messages?
By releasing neurotransmitters.
What do neurotransmitters do?
They pass signals to nearby neurons or muscles.
What kinds of responses can the nervous system cause through neurotransmitters?
Increased heart rate, muscle contraction, and other actions.
What does the Somatic Nervous System (SNS) control?
Voluntary movements — actions you choose, like moving your arms or walking.
What does the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) control?
Involuntary actions — automatic processes like heart rate, digestion, and breathing, which you can’t consciously control.
What are the two main parts of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?
Sympathetic Nervous System and Parasympathetic Nervous System.
What is the function of the Sympathetic Nervous System?
Prepares the body for ‘fight or flight.’
What are some effects of the Sympathetic Nervous System activation?
Increases heart rate, opens airways, slows digestion.
What is the function of the Parasympathetic Nervous System?
Supports ‘rest and digest’ functions.
What are some effects of the Parasympathetic Nervous System activation?
Slows heart rate, increases digestion, relaxes the body.
