Question

5. Explain the impact of damage to the Spinal Cord in each of the following functions. (14 points)
• Ventilation
• Communication
• Autonomic Nervous System
• Cardiovascular function
• Sensorimotor function
• Function of the intestine and urinary bladder
• Sexual Function

Answer 1

Impact of damage to Spinal Chord
Ventilation	It is associated with a decrease in lung volume. There is production of weak cough. Weakness in respiratory muscles is also observed. Changes in chest wall compression is seen.
Communication	There is a decrease in vocal intensity and phonatory duration. There is a decrement in the rate of speech and altered pitch control.
Autonomic Nervous System	Autonomic Nervous System is adversely affected by spinal chord damage. There is an impairment in the activity of gastrointestinal, thermoregulatory, cardiac and sexual activity.
Cardiovascular function	The damage to autonomous nerve with cardiovascular function may predispose to change the autonomic activities of heart. Spinal injury in overweight individuals carry high risk of atherosclerosis.
Sensorimotor function	The movements of body parts decrease. The perception of sensation is altered.
Function of the intestine and urinary bladder	The injury to spinal chord may interrupt the communication between nerve and spinal cord. It may cause incontinence in bladder and bowel function. A decrease in peristalsis is also observed.
Sexual Function	There is a decreased sense to movement of muscles. It affects orgasm, ejaculation, erection and lubrication of vagina.