Degenerative Neurologic Disorders and Dementia Flashcards Preview

Paramedic Class > Degenerative Neurologic Disorders and Dementia > Flashcards

Flashcards in Degenerative Neurologic Disorders and Dementia Deck (6)
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1
Q

Muscular Dystrophy

A

a group of genetic diseases / characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration of the skeletal or voluntary muscle fibers

2
Q

Multiple Sclerosis (autoimmune attack against myelin)

A

unpredictable disease of the CNS / inflammation of certain nerve cells followed by demyelination, or destruction of the myelin sheath (fatty insulation surrounding nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord) / myelin sheath damage results in poor conduction of impulse across the nerves / signs and symptoms - weakness of one or more limbs, sensory loss, paresthesias, and changes in vision

3
Q

Dystonias

A

characterized by muscle contractions that cause twisting and repetitive movements, abnormal postures, or freezing in the middle of an action - movements are involuntary and sometimes painful - may affect a single muscle or a group of muscles or the entire body / early symptoms - deterioration in handwriting, foot cramps, or a tendency of one foot to drag after walking or running

4
Q

Central Pain Syndrome

A

results from damage or injury to the brain, brainstem, or spinal cord / characterized by intense, steady pain described as boring, aching, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation / may develop in weeks, months, or years after an injury to the CNS / occurs in patient’s who have suffered strokes, MS, limb amputations, or spinal cord injuries

5
Q

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

A

progressive degeneration of specific nerve cells that control voluntary movement / characterized by weakness, loss of motor control, difficulty speaking, and cramping, the disease eventually weakens the diaphragm

6
Q

Poliomyelitis (polio)

A

infectious, inflammatory viral disease of the central nervous system that sometimes results in permanent paralysis / characterized by fatigue, headache, fever, vomiting, stiffness of the neck, and pain to the hands and feet