Simon Marweyi
Jan 19
Essay: With its citations, describe the organisation and functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system?
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Jan 19
The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are two divisions of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions. These systems work in tandem to maintain homeostasis and regulate various physiological processes in response to internal and external stimuli. This essay will describe the organization and functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, supported by relevant citations.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body for action in times of stress or danger. It is organized in a chain-like structure, with ganglia located close to the spinal cord. When activated, the sympathetic system releases neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, which bind to adrenergic receptors in target tissues, leading to physiological changes. According to Cannon (1915), the sympathetic system increases heart rate, dilates the bronchioles, constricts blood vessels, and stimulates the release of glucose from the liver, among other responses.
On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "rest and digest" response, promoting relaxation and conservation of energy. It is organized in a craniosacral pattern, with ganglia located near or within target organs. Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter released by the parasympathetic system, binding to muscarinic receptors in target tissues. Activation of the parasympathetic system leads to decreased heart rate, increased digestion, and constriction of the pupils, among other effects. As stated by Guyton and Hall (2006), the parasympathetic system promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes, increases intestinal motility, and stimulates the bladder to contract.
Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems work together to maintain homeostasis and ensure the proper functioning of various bodily systems. They have antagonistic effects, with the sympathetic system preparing the body for action and the parasympathetic system promoting relaxation and restoration. This balance is crucial for overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are integral components of the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic system prepares the body for action, while the parasympathetic system promotes relaxation and restoration. These systems work in tandem to regulate various physiological processes and maintain homeostasis. Understanding the organization and functions of these systems is essential for comprehending the complex mechanisms underlying the autonomic control of bodily functions.
References:
Cannon, W. B. (1915). Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear, and rage: An account of recent researches into the function of emotional excitement. D. Appleton and Company.
Guyton, A. C., & Hall, J. E. (2006). Textbook of medical physiology. Elsevier Saunders.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body for action in times of stress or danger. It is organized in a chain-like structure, with ganglia located close to the spinal cord. When activated, the sympathetic system releases neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, which bind to adrenergic receptors in target tissues, leading to physiological changes. According to Cannon (1915), the sympathetic system increases heart rate, dilates the bronchioles, constricts blood vessels, and stimulates the release of glucose from the liver, among other responses.
On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "rest and digest" response, promoting relaxation and conservation of energy. It is organized in a craniosacral pattern, with ganglia located near or within target organs. Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter released by the parasympathetic system, binding to muscarinic receptors in target tissues. Activation of the parasympathetic system leads to decreased heart rate, increased digestion, and constriction of the pupils, among other effects. As stated by Guyton and Hall (2006), the parasympathetic system promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes, increases intestinal motility, and stimulates the bladder to contract.
Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems work together to maintain homeostasis and ensure the proper functioning of various bodily systems. They have antagonistic effects, with the sympathetic system preparing the body for action and the parasympathetic system promoting relaxation and restoration. This balance is crucial for overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are integral components of the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic system prepares the body for action, while the parasympathetic system promotes relaxation and restoration. These systems work in tandem to regulate various physiological processes and maintain homeostasis. Understanding the organization and functions of these systems is essential for comprehending the complex mechanisms underlying the autonomic control of bodily functions.
References:
Cannon, W. B. (1915). Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear, and rage: An account of recent researches into the function of emotional excitement. D. Appleton and Company.
Guyton, A. C., & Hall, J. E. (2006). Textbook of medical physiology. Elsevier Saunders.
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