oxygen, which it needs to function normally.
The saying “use it or lose it” applies to your brain as well as your body. This means that
mental activity, not just physical activity, is important for nervous system health. Doing
crossword puzzles, reading, and playing a musical instrument are just a few ways you can
keep your brain active.
You can also choose to practice safe behaviors to protect your nervous system from injury.
To keep your nervous system safe, choose to
- Wear safety goggles or sunglasses when needed to protect your eyes from injury.
- Wear hearing protectors such as ear plugs to protect your ears from loud sounds.
- Wear a safety helmet for activities like bike riding and skating (Figure20.40).
- Wear a safety belt every time you ride in a motor vehicle.
- Avoid unnecessary risks, such as performing dangerous stunts on your bike.
- Never dive into water that is not approved for diving. If the water is too shallow, you
could seriously injure your brain or spinal cord. A few minutes of fun could turn into
a lifetime in a wheelchair.
Figure 20.40: Bicycle helmets help protect from head injuries; making healthy choices like
this can help prevent nervous system injuries that could cause lifelong disability. ( 27 )
Lesson Summary
- The nervous system can be affected by infections, tumors, and other diseases.
- Brain or spinal cord injuries may cause permanent disability or even death.