Homework Question on Disorders of the nervous system
- Select and research the top three common nervous system disorders.
- For each disorder: What are the signs, symptoms, treatments, and occurrences.
- Identify which patient population is most at risk.
- Also, include any preventative measures.
Homework Answer on Disorders of the nervous system
Nervous system disorders that are common include multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Multiple sclerosis disease is an immune-mediated disorder that causes the abnormal response of the immune system to the spinal nerve and the brain cells interrupting the travelling of impulses (Fletcher & Matassa, 1994). Signs and symptoms of this disorder are fatigue, walking difficulties, dizziness, tingling, balance problems, muscle spasm and difficulties in vision (McCall & Palmer, 1992). It affects people between the ages of 15-50, where women are more likely to be affected than men. Prescription of corticosteroids reduces inflammation of the nerves (Lang & Rihmer, 1986).
Parkinson’s disease results from the breakdown of the neurons leading to low production of dopamine causing abnormal brain activity (Lewis & Iqbal, 1997). It occurs in all races but it is more prevalent in Caucasian population where men tend to develop more than women and is more common in elderly than the young. Its Signs and symptoms include tremor, stiff muscles, slowed movement, change in speech, depression, anxiety and constipation. Caffeine in coffee and tea can help reduce Parkinson’s disease. Levodopa coupled with carbidopa, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and dopamine agonists can be used treat Parkinson’s disease (Korosi & Moravcsik, 1983).
Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for the loss of memory, thinking and behavior in the elderly people. Signs and symptoms include loss of memory, disorientation, hallucinations, mood and behavioral change (Prucher & Schwartz, 1997). Donepezil (Aricept) drug can be used in the treatment of all stages of Alzheimer’s disease (Harigaya & Yamatsu, 1987).