Neuropathy - Some terminology - Some concepts
And, there are some nerves that have both properties - afferent and efferent. One such example are the unmyelinated C fibers. But this is a complex topic unto itself - and is worthy of being treated in a subsequent discussion.
Thus - perhaps it is most meaningful to think of neuropathies attacking major nerves, like the ulnar or radial nerves of the arms and hands and not the minor nerves that provide feeling or the sense of touch in the skin of the fingers.
The Autonomic Nervous System is comprised of the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic, and Enteric Nervous Systems. The Autonomic nervous system is the regulator, the "HVAC" system of the body. It is a "thermostatic" like functioning that controls the major and many of the minor subsystems of the body, and controls the opening and closing of sphincter muscles and other similar functions.
Thermostatic in that the Sympathetic is responsible for increasing pulse rate, raising blood pressure, enlarging the pupils of the eyes, the "raising of the hackles" on the back of your neck, the increased production of adrenaline, and more.
The Parasympathetic does exactly the opposite of the Sympathetic. Pulse rate is decreased, blood pressure is lowered, the pupils are contracted, the "hackles" are lowered, and adrenaline production is reduced.
The Enteric Nervous System controls the stomach, the intestines (large and small), and the bladder and bowels. You may learn more of the Enteric nervous system in the study of Neurogastroenterology. The Enteric nervous system is comprised of what is commonly referred to as the "viscera".
To Be Continued
Next week, I shall conclude with:
- The Thoracic and Lumbar Ganglia
- The Immune System
- The Vascular and Microvascular Systems
- The Major (secondary) Etiologies of the Neuropathies
The copyright of the article Neuropathy - Some terminology - Some concepts in Neurological Diseases is owned by Les Abrams. Permission to republish Neuropathy - Some terminology - Some concepts in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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