Brain and Nervous System
A healthy brain and nervous system regulate your body functions so you can have full command over your senses, muscles, and intelligence. Despite the amazing capacities of the human brain and nerves, they are vulnerable to damage just like every other part of our bodies.
Strokes, concussions, Alzheimers and many other brain problems affect about 50 million Americans. The multitude of brain injuries and illnesses strike different people based on the risk factors of their genetics, age and lifestyle. The severity of impairment and the availability of treatment vary widely.
Knowledge of brain and nerve health has advanced rapidly in recent decades. Many new treatments and medicines are available to treat various disorders. Still, the best thing for your brain is to keep it physically and mentally active while eating nutritious food and getting plenty of social interaction.
Recently Answered
- Q What are the symptoms of meningitis?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyIf you or a loved one experience the following symptoms, go -- do not wait -- to the emergency room for further evaluation, as meningitis is a deadly disease if not caught early. Fever Headache Stiff neck Nausea Vomiting Photophobia (sensitivity... Full Answer
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- Q What can cause deja vu?
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal MedicineOne theory on deja vu is that hyperactive neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine) that help shuttle information into both short-term memory and long-term memory centers change lanes. The visual memory you are seeing for the first time ends up getting... Full Answer
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- Q What causes meningitis?
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Meningitis is most often caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. When such an infection infiltrates the fluid surrounding the spinal cord and brain, the membranes in the area, called meninges, become inflammed and begin to swell. In some... Full Answer
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- Q Does meningitis affect children differently than adults?
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Teens and young adults are at greater risk for meningitis, but the symptoms in children and adults tend to be similar. Infants will typically present a distinct set of symptoms and are more likely to die of the illness due to their newly developing... Full Answer
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- Q What are the treatment options for meningitis?
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The treatment of meningitis depends on what is causing the infection. Viral meningitis will typically require rest, as it usually resolves on its own within a couple of weeks. Bacterial meningitis, however, is treated with antibiotics specific to the... Full Answer
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- Q What is meningitis?
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Meningitis usually begins with an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The infection can be bacterial, fungal, or viral, and causes the spinal cord and brain membranes to swell. Viral meningitis typical clears up in a few weeks,... Full Answer
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- Q When should I get a meningococcal vaccine before traveling?
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The meningococcal vaccine is required for travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is recommended for travel to parts of Africa. It is also recommended for healthcare workers. Full Answer
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- Q What is a vasovagal reaction?
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A vasovagal reaction (also called vasovagal syncope) is sudden dizziness or fainting that can be triggered by pain, fright, or trauma. You may sweat, feel lightheaded, nauseated, or tingly, and you may pass out if the reaction continues. A vasovagal... Full Answer
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- Q Is brain damage always permanent?
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There are numerous kinds of brain damage. The impact that brain damage has, and whether or not recovery is possible, depends to a large degree on the location and severity of the injury. A concussion, for instance, usually refers to the brain bouncing... Full Answer
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- Q When should children be vaccinated against meningitis?
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Meningococcal meningitis and invasive meningococcal disease produce 1,000 to 2,000 cases each year. The meningococci that cause invasive disease are carried by humans in the nasopharynx, and approximately 5-10% of the population is colonized at any... Full Answer
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