Points to Consider
- Our senses, along with the rest of our nervous system, help us stay safe. At least they
do if our nervous system is healthy. But what if the nervous system itself becomes ill
or injured? What do you think would happen then? How do you think nervous system
problems affect the rest of the body?
20.4 Lesson 20.4: Health of the Nervous System
Lesson Objectives
- Describe diseases of the nervous system.
- Explain how the nervous system can be injured.
- Identify the dangers of alcohol and other drugs.
- List ways to keep the nervous system healthy.
Check Your Understanding
- What is the role of the nervous system?
- What are some of the components of the nervous system?
Introduction
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. Nervous system problems include diseases and injuries. Most nervous
system diseases cannot be prevented. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk of
nervous system injuries.
Nervous System Diseases
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,
suchastensionheadaches. Somediseasesarepresentatbirth. Othersbeginduringchildhood
or adulthood.