The Nervous System

• The nervous system is the communication network for the body.
• The main function of the nervous system is to coordinate all of the body's activities.

Neurons

• A neuron is also know as a nerve cell.
• Dendrites are part of a neuron.
• Axons are also part of a neuron.
• Myelin sheath is another part of the neuron
• Synapse is another part of teh neuron

Types of Neurons

• Afferent
• Efferent
• Associative

Divisions of the Nervous System

• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system
• Autonomic nervous system

Central Nervous System: Brain

• The brain consists of the Cerebrum, Diencephalon, and Cerebellum

Central Nervous System: Brain (Continued)

• The brain stem is made up of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata

Central Nervous System: Spinal Cord

• The spinal cord controls many reflex actions.
• The spinal cord is a pathway for messages to and from the brain and the nerves that go to the muscles and glands.

Central Nervous System: Protection

• The brain is protected by the skull.
• The spinal cord is protected by the vertebrae
• Meninges cover and protect the brain and spinal cord
• The layers of meninges are dura mater, arachnoid, pia mater
• Cerebrospinal fluid protects the brain

Peripheral Nervous System

• Cranial nerves - 12 pairs and branches.
• Spinal nerves - 31 pairs and branches.

Autonomic Nervous System

• The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary body functions
• There is the sympathetic system
• There is also the parasympathetic system

Diseases and Disorders of the Nervous System

• Myasthenia Gravis
• Cerebrovascular Accidents
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Autism
• Alzheimer's