Glossary N

Narcotic

A substance that relieves pain, induces sleep, and calms the body, usually a drug derived from opium or compounds similar to opium. Such drugs are potent pain relievers and can affect mood and behavior.

Neuroimaging

The use of x-rays and scan such as MRIs to detect abnormalities or trace pathways of nerve activity in the central nervous system.

Neuro

A prefix in words for concepts and topics relating to the brain and neurology.

Neurological

Relating to or emanating from the nervous system or from neurology.

Neurology

The branch of medical science that deals with the nervous system and its disorders.

Neurochemical

Chemicals in the brain and nervous system. Often used to refer to Chemicals that are both Neurotransmitter and Hormones.

Neurotransmission

When a neurotransmitter, or chemical agent released by a particular brain cell, travels across the synapse to act on the target cell to either inhibit or excite it.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical in the brain that transmits messages between neurons, or nerve cells. E.g. serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine.

Neutrophil

A type of Leukocyte. Neutrophilia, where high levels of neutrophils are found in the blood, is often seen with acute bacterial infections. Neutropenia, low levels of neutrophils, can be seen with viral infections and after radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

NFA

The National Fibromyalgia Association in the USA.

Nodule

A small mass of tissue in the form of a swelling, knot, or protuberance which is solid and can be detected by touch.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

NSAIDs are drugs that work to reduce or limit inflammation without being steroids (another type of drug used to reduce or limit inflammation). E.g. Ibuprofen, Aspirin.

Noradrenaline

See Norepinephrine.

Norepinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter released by the adrenal gland, it is part of the fight-or-flight response and also directly increases heart rate, blood pressure, energy release from fat, and muscle readiness.

NREM

Non-REM. As in NREM sleep. See also Sleep stages.

See Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).