addiction: According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction is a complex chronic disease characterized by an uncontrollable urge to use a drug despite knowing its harmful effects. This behavior often begins with voluntary initial exposure to drugs. However, repeated use can lead to changes in brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control, making it difficult to resist the urge to continue use. The term addiction also applies to behaviors such as gambling, shopping, and excessive video game use.
ADHD: ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a condition marked by persistent symptoms of impulsiveness, inattention, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can interfere with an individual’s ability to function effectively.
Note: Concentration of mental resources on a particular object or event.
blood pressure: The force exerted on blood vessel walls by blood as it circulates through the body’s arteries. Blood pressure is essential for delivering oxygen to tissues and maintaining fluid balance. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, while low blood pressure can lead to dizziness or fainting.
cell: The smallest unit of life in an organism, composed of a watery fluid enclosed by a membrane or wall. Organisms, ranging from yeast to animals, are made up of thousands to trillions of cells.
chemicals: Substances formed when atoms combine in specific proportions and structures. Chemicals can result from reactions between different compounds, exhibiting distinct properties.
chemical messenger: Molecules that transmit signals in the body, such as hormones and neurotransmitters. Chemical messengers play a crucial role in sending signals between cells and organs.
develop: Process of natural growth or production, from conception to adulthood in living organisms. Development involves changes in size, chemistry, mental maturity, and sometimes shape.
hindrance: Condition in which the body does not function properly, often considered a disease. This term may be used interchangeably with disease in certain contexts.
dopamine: A neurotransmitter that facilitates signal transmission in the brain.
concentration: Intense focus on a specific object or point.
hormone: Chemical produced in glands and transported through the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions. Hormones control essential activities like growth and induce chemical reactions in the body.
logic: Tissue responsible for movement through muscle contraction. Predatory species seek prey rich in muscle tissue due to its protein content.
nerve: Long fibers that transmit signals throughout an animal’s body, controlling movement and conveying sensations like temperature and pain.
neuron: Specialized cells in the nervous system that generate, receive, and transmit electrical signals. Neurons communicate with other cells using chemical messengers.
neurotransmitters: Chemicals released by neurons to convey messages to neighboring cells by binding to receptors. Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in transmitting signals within the nervous system.
regulate: To control or manage by taking action.
salt: Compound formed by combining an acid and a base, like sodium chloride in table salt. Sea salt contains various salts found in the ocean.
symptoms: Physical or mental indicators characteristic of a disease or condition, such as fever or pain.
synapse: Connections between neurons that transmit chemical and electrical signals.
send: To communicate or transmit information.
Source: www.snexplores.org
