The nervous system - Episodic neurological disorders - ch 12

Question 1

Name two episodic neurological disorders?

Answer 1

1. epilepsy

2. sleep apnoea

Question 2

Definition of episodic neurological disorders?

Answer 2

Epilepsy is an episodic neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, transient abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The normal pattern of neuronal activity becomes disturbed, causing a period of confusion, sensory disturbances, a staring spell, convulsions, muscle spasms and/or loss of consciousness.

Question 3

Name 3 causes of Epilepsy?

Answer 3

1. imbalance of neurotransmitters
2. brain injury
3. abnormal brain development
   (in many cases a cause in unknown)

Question 4

How is Epilepsy classified?

Answer 4

by the type of seizure

partial or focal and generalised

Question 5

Describe a partial seizure?

Answer 5

no loss of consciousness with possible muscle spasm

Question 6

Name the medication that can control Epilepsy?

Answer 6

anticonvulsant medication

Question 7

Definition of sleep apnoea?

Answer 7

a common disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur from 5 to 30 times or more per hour. Resulting in poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness, slow reflexes, poor concentration, increased risk of accidents.

Question 8

Definition of destructive sleep apnoea?

Answer 8

The soft tissue in the throat relaxes during sleep causing a blockage of the airway. Air that squeezes past the blockage can cause loud snoring. It is more common in people who are overweight but it can affect anyone including children with enlarged tonsils.

Question 9

Name 4 treatments for sleep apnoea?

Answer 9

1. lifestyle changes
2. mouth splints
3. surgery
4. Use of CPAP - continuous positive airway pressure