Main Parts of the Nervous System
The nervous system is divided into two main parts:
1. Central Nervous System (CNS)
The CNS acts as the control center of the body and consists of:
Brain – It processes thoughts, emotions, memory, and controls body movements.
Spinal Cord – It connects the brain to the rest of the body and helps transmit signals.
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The PNS includes all the nerves outside the CNS and is further divided into:
Somatic Nervous System – Controls voluntary actions like moving your arms or legs.
Autonomic Nervous System – Manages involuntary actions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing. It has two parts:
Sympathetic Nervous System – Prepares the body for stress or danger ("fight or flight" response).
Parasympathetic Nervous System – Helps the body relax and maintain balance.
How the Nervous System Works
The nervous system functions through neurons (nerve cells), which transmit electrical and chemical signals throughout the body.
Main Parts of a Neuron
1. Dendrites – Receive signals from other neurons.
2. Axon – Transmits signals to other neurons or muscles.
3. Synapse – The gap where neurons communicate using neurotransmitters (chemical messengers).
Functions of the Nervous System
Sensory Input – Detects changes in the environment through sensory organs.
Processing Information – The brain analyzes and makes decisions.
Motor Output – Sends commands to muscles and organs for action.
Homeostasis – Maintains body balance (e.g., regulating temperature, heart rate).
Common Nervous System Disorders
Alzheimer’s Disease – Memory loss and cognitive decline.
Parkinson’s Disease – Affects movement and coordination.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – The immune system attacks nerve coverings.
Epilepsy – Causes seizures due to abnormal brain activity.
The nervous system is essential for survival, as it controls nearly every function in the body. Proper nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation help keep it healthy.