Question

• Describe the physiology role of the autonomic division and its branches
• Compare and contrast the anatomy and chemical communication of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branes

Answer 1

Autonomic nervous system is concerned with the regulation of the visceral or vegetative functions. So, it is otherwise called involuntary nervous system because it control all the smooth muscles of our body. It in not in our control.

Autonomic nervous system consists of two divisions- sympathetic and parasympathetic

sympathetic division-

It is responsible for flight and fight response.

The fibres originates from Dorso lumbar spinal section (T1 to L2).

The postganglionic fibre is long while preganglionic fibre is short.

The main neurotransmitter is not adrenaline.

The main function of this division is to tackle stress and emergency

Effects are - increase heart rate, dilate bronchi, vasoconstriction, increase GI movement, dilation of pupil, increases blood pressure, sweating etc.

parasympathetic division

it is responsible for conservation of energy and acts opposite to sympathetic division .

It's location is craniosacral.

The postganglionic fibre is short while preganglionic is long.

The main neurotransmitter is acetylcholine.

It's main function is to conserve the energy and assimilation of food.

Effects are- decreases heart rate and blood pressure, relaxes sphincters of body, bronchoconstriction, increase GI motility, increases secretions from glands, increase glucose formation.