8. Autonomic nervous system Flashcards
what division is the autonomic nervous system apart of?
the efferent division
where do these nerves carry their messages to?
the heart, involuntary muscles, glands and other internal organs
how does it operate?
what does it control?
subconsciously controls the body's internal environment heart rate blood pressure body temp digestion energy production pupil diameter air flow to lungs defaecation urination
the structure of the autonomic nerve
two neurons carry the impulse to the effector
one neuron has its cell body in the spinal cord and the other in the ganglion outside the spinal cord
Name three types of neurotransmitters in the autonomic nervous system
sympathetic division - acetylcholine at the first synapse, and then mainly noradrenaline at the second synapse
- starts with a small nerve and ends with a long nerve
parasympathetic division - acetylcholine at the first and second synapse
- starts with a long nerve and ends with a short nerve
somatic efferent neurons - release acetylcholine at the junctions with skeletal muscles
- impulse go to voluntary muscles
- only one neuron used
what response does the sympathetic division prepare the body for?
strenuous physical activity
fight or flight response
how does the body respond the strenuous activity ‘crisis’?
- increase heart rate and force of contractions
- dilate bronchioles
- decrease digestion/saliva production
- increase blood glucose levels
- increase sweat production
- more blood to heart, lungs and muscles
what hormone does the sympathetic diviso stimulate
adrenalin
what response does the parasympathetic division prepare the body for?
maintain the body during quite, restful conditions
‘rest and digest’ response
what are the parasympathetic responses?
- decrease heart rate and force of contractions
- constrict bronchioles
- increase digestion/ saliva production
- decrease blood glucose levels
- constrict bladder muscles
