Sympathetic

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is one of the two major divisions of the autonomic nervous system (the other being the parasympathetic nervous system). The sympathetic nervous system is considered the part of the nervous system that is responsible for preparing the body for action through mobilization of energy stores and increasing the heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure.

The sympathetic nervous system gets its name from its reaction to stressful situations. For example, when someone is faced with a stressful situation, they may display signs of sympathetic nervous system activation, such as increased heart rate, increased respiration, increased blood pressure, and dilated pupils. This is commonly referred to as the “fight-or-flight” response.

Function of Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for activating the body during stress or excitement and prepares it to take action. For example, during a stressful situation, the sympathetic nervous system will cause the heart to beat faster, the blood pressure to increase, and the muscles to tense in order to prepare the body for action.

The sympathetic nervous system also influences various organs throughout the body, including the lungs, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary tract. It can cause increased pupil diameter, increased sweating, lowered sensitivity to pain, and increased secretion of saliva and other digestive juices.

Activation of Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is usually activated in response to environmental stressors or mental stimulation. It is also activated during physical activity, when the body needs to generate energy quickly in order to maintain performance.

The sympathetic nervous system can also be activated in response to fear or anxiety. This is known as the fight-or-flight response, as it prepares the body for action. This activation occurs through the release of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol.

Effects of Sympathetic Nervous System

The effects of the sympathetic nervous system can be summarized as follows:

• Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
• Increased release of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol.
• Increased pupil diameter.
• Increased sweating.
• Lowered sensitivity to pain.
• Increased secretion of saliva and other digestive juices.
• Increased activity of organs throughout the body.