Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate therapy can be considered. There are several groups of drugs that are used to treat disorders of the nervous system. Drugs used to treat epileptic seizures are known as anticonvulsants. Anti-inflammatory medications, including corticosteroids, are used to reduce swelling and inflammation in many types of injuries. These medications may be given intravenously in some cases (such as spinal cord injury) and by mouth in others. Other medications
Evaluation of the nervous system begins with an accurate history and general physical examination, followed by a neurologic examination. There are a number of specific physical tests that can be carried out to evaluate the functioning of the various components of the nervous system. These include tests of various reflexes, muscle function and control, and posture and gait.
Laboratory tests are often needed to diagnose the specific problem. Common diagnostic t
A change in an animal’s ability to sense its environment can be caused by disease in either the central nervous system or the peripheral nervous system. The primary signs of nervous system disorders include behavioral changes, seizures, tremors, pain, numbness, lack of coordination, and weakness or paralysis of one or more legs. The effects of an injury on sensory and motor functions depend on its location and severity.
A spinal cord injury can c
The central nervous system includes the spinal cord and the brain. The brain is divided into 3 main sections—the brainstem, which controls many basic life functions, the cerebrum, which is the center of conscious decision-making, and the cerebellum, which is involved in movement and motor control. The spinal cord of cats is divided into regions that
The nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and several different kinds of nerves that are found throughout the body. These create complex circuits through which animals experience and respond to sensations.
A familiar type of nervous system circuit is a reflex. Reflexes are simple networks found in the nervous system of al