http://www.ck12.org Chapter 1. Human Biology
1.50 Diseases of the Nervous System
- Describe diseases of the nervous system.
Why get vaccinations?
Like this girl, many people are a little afraid of needles. But this is no reason to avoid vaccinations. Vaccinations can
help you avoid serious diseases. For example, a vaccination to prevent meningitis, a serious infection of the nervous
system, is now available.
Diseases of the Nervous System
The nervous system controls sensing, feeling, and thinking. It also controls movement and just about every other
body function. That’s why problems with the nervous system can affect the entire body. Diseases of the nervous
system include brain and spinal cord infections. Other problems of the nervous system range from very serious
diseases, such as tumors, to less serious problems, such as tension headaches. Some diseases are present at birth.
Others begin during childhood or adulthood.
Central Nervous System Infections
When you think of infections, you probably think of an ear infection or strep throat. You probably don’t think of
a brain or spinal cord infection. But bacteria and viruses can infect these organs as well as other parts of the body.
Infections of the brain and spinal cord are not very common. But when they happen, they can be very serious. That’s
why it’s important to know their symptoms.