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Chapter 6: Nervous System Emergencies

The brain and central nervous system control everything from movement and thought to involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate. Because they’re so connected to every part of the body, any injury or medical issue involving the nervous system can be serious—and fast, careful first aid is critical.

online-cpr-course-heart-attack

Causes of Nervous System Emergencies

These emergencies may be triggered by:

  • Degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  • Infections
  • Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety
  • Organ failure, including heart failure
  • Blood supply issues
  • Trauma to the head or spine
  • Tumors

Signs and Symptoms

Watch for signs such as:

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Confusion
  • Discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or abdomen
  • Headache, nausea, or vomiting
  • Blood or fluid from the nose or ears
  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling
  • Paralysis
  • Trouble speaking or slurred speech
  • Seizures
  • Dizziness, shortness of breath, or sweating

Emergency Types and How to Respond

  • Heart Attack
    Occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked. The person may complain of chest pain, pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, or discomfort in other parts of the body.
    What to do: If they’re not allergic to aspirin, aren’t bleeding, and don’t show stroke symptoms, give one regular-strength or two low-dose aspirin. Call 9-1-1 and stay with the person.
  • Seizure
    Caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. May involve mild shaking or full-body convulsions. Possible triggers include epilepsy, low blood sugar, poisons, missed medication, or head injury.
    What to do: Move any nearby objects that could cause harm. Do not restrain the person. If they vomit and there’s no suspected head, neck, or back injury, roll them into the recovery position.
  • Stroke
    Happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel ruptures. Symptoms appear suddenly—slurred speech, severe headache, weakness or paralysis (usually on one side), loss of balance, or confusion.
    What to do: Note the time symptoms began. If the person becomes unconscious and there’s no suspected spinal injury, use the recovery position while you wait for EMS.
  • Spinal or Head Injury
    These injuries can occur from falls, vehicle accidents, sports injuries, or being struck in the head or spine. The person may feel drowsy, vomit, struggle to speak or walk, or become unresponsive.

    What to do: Do not move the person unless the scene is unsafe. If they begin to vomit, roll them into a recovery position while keeping the head and neck as still as possible.

Final Steps

Always check the scene for safety before you approach:

  • Call 9-1-1 and follow dispatcher instructions
  • Get an AED or First Aid kit if available
  • If the person becomes unresponsive, begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). If you’re not trained in full CPR, give Hands-Only CPR

This chapter in your Online First Aid Course prepares you to act quickly and confidently during nervous system emergencies.