Nervous System Disorders and Mental Health Pathologies

Mental and Neurodegenerative Disorders

Schizophrenia typically appears after adolescence. It is a personality disorder in which individuals fail to distinguish the real from the imaginary world, often experiencing delusions and obsessions. Dementia involves the gradual loss of mental capacity and intellectual functions. This includes senile dementia (occurring at 80 years or older) and presenile dementia (occurring before the age of 80).

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative conditions are caused by neuronal destruction or dysfunction in determined Nervous System (SN) areas. Common types include:

• Parkinson's: This affects nerve cells in the substantia nigra (nucleus niger). These neurons control involuntary movement and muscle coordination.
• Alzheimer's: Patients gradually lose their memory and experience behavioral changes.
• Huntington's: The symptoms are similar to those experienced after being inoculated with tarantula poison after 30 years. This condition is genetic and hereditary.

The Nervous System and Drugs

Chemical substances affect the Central Nervous System (CNS) by changing moods and reducing sensitivity. Types include:

• Stimulants: Amphetamines (Type A) can cause hypertension, addictive side effects, dizziness, fainting, and hallucinations. Cocaine (Type B) produces fatigue and can lead to death.
• Depressants: These are used to reduce anxiety and euphoria.

The Parasympathetic and Enteric Systems

The Parasympathetic System

The parasympathetic system is responsible for regeneration, synthesis, and recovery after stress. It originates in the brainstem (basal encephalic trunk). The primary neurotransmitter is acetylcholine. Its functions include:

• Slowing the heartbeat and respiratory frequency.
• Lowering arterial tension.
• Shrinking the pupils and bronchi.
• Relaxing hair follicles and decreasing sweating.
• Increasing saliva production and improving bowel function.

The Enteric System

The enteric system consists of neurons whose axons form ganglia united into a nervous network or plexus.

• Myenteric plexus: Located between the circular and longitudinal muscles of the intestine.
• External submucosal plexus: Located in the external submucosa.
• Internal submucosal plexus: Located in the internal submucosa.

Neurological and Psychological Diseases

Neurological Diseases

These are caused by a malfunction of neurons:

• Epilepsy: Characterized by attacks due to a lack of regulation in CNS neurons, producing pulses that interfere with the brain. This leads to a loss of consciousness and perception problems.
• Meningitis: An inflammation of the meninges that damages the CNS and puts pressure on the brain.
• Sclerosis: (Including normal, multiple, and lateral sclerosis). This can produce a slowly progressive destruction of the myelin sheath of axons, causing the individual to lose sensitivity.

Psychological Diseases

These are related to intellectual alternatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones.

Depression: Characterized by deep sadness and an inability to lead a normal life.