(TBBS) The Nervous and Endocrine Systems Lesson Four

The Nervous and Endocrine Systems

Structure and Function

The nervous system is one of the most important body systems. Without it, none of the other systems would have any movement at all. The nervous system controls all types of body motion, voluntary and involuntary, allowing the body to function as a cohesive unit. The nervous system consists of many specialized mini systems that each controls a different type of motion. Thanks to all of these different systems, the body can initiate motion and function properly. The main nervous system, consisting of the brain and spinal cord, is the Central Nervous System. It collects and interprets all the nerve impulses in the body and sends signals from the brain, down the spinal cord, and throughout the body. It does this by using neurons found in the Peripheral nervous system.

View the presentation below to learn about the Structure and Function of the Nervous System.

Conditions that Require Emergency Care

Unfortunately, brain cells do not grow back like other body cells. Once damage occurs, brain cells may die, thus impairing the body function that is controlled by that part of the brain. Injuries to the nervous system can cause a change in a person's level of consciousness. Victims may be fully aware of their surroundings and what is going on, or may seem dull or cloudy.

• Head injuries that cause a loss of consciousness should be considered serious as there may be damage to the brain.
• Injuries to the spinal cord or nerves can lead to paralysis or a permanent loss of feeling and movement below the injury. This can be caused by injuries to the back, neck or even a broken bone or deep wound that has caused nerve damage.

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