What is the nervous system? It’s not the current political climate. It’s not the regularly scheduled visit to your in-laws. In truth, if you feel uneasy about politics, or a sudden sinking feeling in your gut on your way to visit your in-laws, the nervous system is to blame. In short, the nervous system is your brain and connected nerves. The brain sends signals called neurons throughout the system. These signals traverse the spine and the intricate network of nerves to communicate information to and from brain to the rest of the body. The nervous system is responsible for all of the senses (sight, hearing, touch. etc). The nervous system is made up of even more systems.

1.​ Central Nervous System

2. Peripheral Nervous System

3. Somatic Nervous System

4. Autonomic Nervous System

5. Enteric Nervous System

That’s an awful lot of systems. Unfortunately, as with every part of the human body, the nervous system is not immune to disease.

1. Epilepsy- Perhaps the most recognized nervous system disease. Warnings about epilepsy typically precede digital displays of flashing lights. Epilepsy is caused by irregular patterns of neurons that causes seizures.

2. Parkinson’s Disease- A progressive disease that limits movement.

3. Multiple Sclerosis- A disease in which the immune system attacks the nervous system.

4. Lou Gehrig’s Disease- Weakens the muscles and impairs movement.

5. Huntington’s Disease- Deterioration of the brain and nerves.