The word neurological means relating to the anatomy, functions and organic disorders of the nerves and the nervous system. A system as vital as the central nervous system, CNS, has been provided with adequate protection also. The extremely delicate brain and spinal cord are sheathed and covered by special membranes and enclosed within a hard and strong bony structure called the cranium and the spinal cord is similarly enclosed within the canal of hard and strong bone pieces called vertebrae. A hydraulic cushion and lubrication are also provided by the cerebrospinal fluid. The individual vertebra is tied together with strong tendons and their musculature to make the canal flexible enough to allow movement in all directions. The peripheral nerves are generally located deep in the muscles and fairly well protected too. The nerve cells have lost their regenerative power. Neuro–regeneration occurs in the peripheral nerves to some extent. A barrier called the blood-brain barrier stops chemical and microscopic particles like bacteria. This barrier is formed by the special endothelial cells that line all the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. These cells are wedged tight to form an impermeable wall.
The medical meaning of neurological includes any disorder that may arise because of the interaction with the other systems of the body. A classic example is the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is the result of a harebrained immune system deciding to make merry with the nervous system. There are about 600 known neurological disorders. However, with all sorts of activities, adventures, and more than enough violence and less than adequate safety practices at all places of hazardous activities, accidents do occur and the fortress is, more often than not, breached with serious consequences.
There are about fourteen names under which neurological diseases are classified. Among these is a common headache to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis’ which is so easy to pronounce that doctors themselves decided to call it ALS. Add congenital malformations and the sub-classification of each, and man-made injuries, well, the brew really thickens!
Even an innocuous headache, which millions of men and women suffer daily, can be a prologue to things serious and delays may have dangerous ends, A golden rule, probably, is anything that sticks with one for beyond a week or visits one frequently or a regular basis, should not be neglected. Medical opinion should be sought. Prevention is any day, better than cure.