The Nervous System and Diseases

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Nervous System and Diseases

Within the human anatomy, an intricate and complex network of specialised nerve fibres and neurons works in collaboration with the central nervous system and peripheral system, designed to carry out the various actions humans perform every day. The nervous system is also known as the master control unit of the human body, as it operates other major functions such as the circulatory and respiratory systems (Jakab, 2006). It is composed of the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The neurons established within the various sections of the nervous system, is structured with three main parts: a dendrite which is a cluster of branches that operates by receiving information from the receptor and neurons and transferring nerve impulses to the cell body; furthermore, a cell body is composed of a nucleus, that works to provide energy and nutrients for the neuron; lastly is an axon, electrically conducted by the myelin sheath, the axon is a pathway nerve impulses pass through from the cell body. In addition, this is the process in which nerve impulses travel by to be able to access the rest of the system (Core Science, 2010). The correct function of the nervous system is vital to the daily survival of an individual, as it obtains a significant role in the control and co-ordination of the human body. Furthermore, if a situation occurs where the nervous system dysfunctions or develops a disease (such as multiple sclerosis), it would in that case threaten the current status of one’s health and cause havoc in the system.

The Central Nervous System (CNS) consists of approximately 100 billion linked neurons, furthermore, it can be categorised into two major divisio...

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...ental. Patients are generally encouraged to lead a normal a life as possible, avoiding overwork, however. Massage or physical therapy of weakened limbs is often used to make patients more comfortable. (The world book medical encyclopaedia, 1988, pg 583-584)

The nervous system plays a major role in co-ordinating and controlling the body’s activities. It is made up of billions of nerve cells. These cells are linked to form a massive communications network. Nerve cells carry messages in the form of electrical impulses. These impulses are carried at high speed around the body to keep it safe and functioning normally. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease which progressively injures the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. Injury to the nerves in multiple sclerosis may be reflected by alterations of virtually any sensory or motor (muscular) function in the body.

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