12.5 - Health Issues Related to the Nervous System

Nervous System Disease

Multiple sclerosis

• A chronic disease that affects the CNS. The immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath in the brain and spinal cord. This causes communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.

Alzheimer's Disease

• A neurological disorder which causes the loss of reasoning and the ability to care for oneself. The patients become forgetfully, confused and lose their way though they are in familiar places. As their minds deteriorate, they may lose their ability to read, write, eat, walk and talk.

Parkinson's Disease

• A progressive disorder of the CNS due to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain. It causes tremors or trembling of the arms, jaws, legs and face. Patients also have difficulty in maintaining normal postures and balance.

Lou Gehrig/Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

• A progressive motor neuron disease that causes muscles to lose control. As the disease deteriorates, patients will use the ability to chew, walk and talk.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• A brain disorder that affects one's ability to pay attention, sit still and control his/her behavior. Patients are normally hyperactive and easily distracted.

Autism

• A developmental disorder related to the nerves in the brain. People who are autistic have problems with social interaction and communication.

The Effects of Drug and Alcohol Abuse on Human Coordination and Response

Misuse of drug substances can lead to addiction when a person cannot resist the urge to consume the drug regardless of the harm the drug can bring. Withdrawal symptoms can result when the person stops taking the drug. The symptoms include shivering, sweating and vomiting which can be very difficult and uncomfortable to the victims.

Substances and Effects*

• Stimulants

  • Increase activity between the CNS and the body.
  • Excessive dose can lead to temporary euphoria and subsequently depression.

• Sedative drugs (depressants)

  • Gives the opposite effect of the stimulants.
  • Reduces the neurotransmission levels.
  • Exert calming effect to the users.

• Hallucinogens

  • Causes hallucinations.
  • Ease feelings of pain and anxiety.

• Narcotics

  • Slows the normal functions of the brain.

• Alcohol

  • Affects normal coordination and thinking.
  • Slows down the neurotransmission rate.