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Brain and Nerves
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Brain Nerves

Brain and Nerves

The brain and nerves form the complex control center of the body, encompassing a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system.

Overview

The nervous system is categorized into three primary areas: the brain, the nerves, and the spinal cord. Understanding these components is essential for identifying and managing various neurological conditions.

The Brain

  • Alzheimer's Disease
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
  • Aphasia
  • Arteriovenous Malformations
  • Brain Aneurysm
  • Brain Diseases
  • Brain Malformations
  • Brain Tumors
  • Cerebellar Disorders
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Chiari Malformation
  • Childhood Brain Tumors
  • Coma
  • Concussion
  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
  • Delirium
  • Dementia
  • Encephalitis
  • Epilepsy
  • Fainting
  • Genetic Brain Disorders
  • Headache
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke
  • Huntington's Disease
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Ischemic Stroke
  • Lewy Body Dementia
  • Memory
  • Migraine
  • Mild Cognitive Impairment
  • Neuroblastoma
  • Neurologic Diseases
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
  • Seizures
  • Speech and Communication Disorders
  • Speech and Language Problems in Children
  • Stroke
  • Tourette Syndrome
  • Transient Ischemic Attack
  • Traumatic Brain Injury

The Nerves

  • Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
  • Bell's Palsy
  • Brachial Plexus Injuries
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
  • Degenerative Nerve Diseases
  • Diabetic Nerve Problems
  • Neurofibromatosis
  • Neuromuscular Disorders
  • Pain
  • Peripheral Nerve Disorders
  • Sciatica
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia

The Spinal Cord

  • Arteriovenous Malformations
  • Meningitis
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Neural Tube Defects
  • Spina Bifida
  • Spinal Cord Diseases
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophy
  • Syringomyelia

Frequently Asked Questions

Your doctor will likely start with a thorough neurological exam to assess your reflexes, strength, sensation, coordination, and mental status. Depending on the findings, you might undergo imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan of the brain or spine, nerve conduction studies and electromyography (NCS/EMG) to check nerve and muscle function, blood tests, or a lumbar puncture (spinal tap).
Doctors differentiate by carefully analyzing your specific symptoms, their location, and how they affect your body. For example, cognitive changes or widespread weakness might suggest a brain issue, while localized numbness or weakness in a limb could point to a peripheral nerve problem. Spinal cord issues often cause symptoms below a certain level of the body. The neurological exam and specific diagnostic tests help pinpoint the exact location and nature of the problem.
bsolutely. A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, getting regular physical exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, managing stress, and staying mentally and socially active can all support brain and nerve health. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is also vital.
You should consult a doctor if you experience sudden or persistent changes in sensation (numbness, tingling), unexplained weakness, vision disturbances, difficulty speaking or understanding, persistent severe headaches, memory problems, or issues with balance and coordination. These symptoms could indicate a problem with your brain, nerves, or spinal cord.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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