Prompt: What are the functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous sy
ID: 3463416 • Letter: P
Question
Prompt: What are the functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems? Please provide an example from real life when these two nervous systems became activated The responses need to be at least two full paragraphs in length (5 sentences 1 paragraph) Instructions: 1. Make your initial post by 23:59 EST Sunday (5/13) of Week 1 Grading Rubric Your assignment will be graded according to the grading rubric: 1. Respond to all parts of the discussion question (10 points). 2. Response is at least 2 paragraphs in length (5 points) 3. Response has proper grammar and spelling (5 points).Explanation / Answer
Note: This response is in UK English, please paste the response to MS Word and you should be able to spot discrepancies easily. You may elaborate the answer based on personal views or your classwork if necessary.
(Answer) The human body comprises of the ‘Autonomic Nervous System’ or the ANS. This ANS further consists of the ‘Sympathetic Nervous System’ or SNS and the ‘Parasympathetic Nervous System’ or the PNS.
The function of the SNS is to control the body’s “fight or flight” response. This means that these nerves would fire up in the face of an imminent threat. This system originates in the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord. Since this system has shorter neurons, they tend to activate a lot faster. When the SNS activates, the heart rate would increase, pupils would dilate, muscles would contract, decrease saliva production, decreases stomach movements and secretions, releases adrenaline, converts glycogen into glucose for energy and decreases urinary input.
The function of the PNS is to control the body’s “rest and digest” and homeostatic functions. This would mean that the PNS controls the body’s responses when it is in the state of rest. The PNS is present in the sacral region of the spinal cord, the medulla and around some of the cranial nerves. Since the PNS has longer pathways, the system is slower. When this system activates, the bronchial tubes constrict, the heart rate decreases, muscles relax, pupils constrict, stomach movement and secretions increase, saliva production increases, there is generally no production of adrenaline and glucose and the urinary tract will increase its output.
Let us assume that a pregnant mother has just had a hearty meal that she enjoyed very much. She is now lying down on the couch and resting her muscles for a bit. At this point, her PNS system has begun its functions. However, after about thirty minutes or so, she begins to get very anxious and nervous because she has figured out that she has labour pains and will deliver her baby soon. She begins to pack her bad and is getting ready to go to the hospital. With the rush and chaos of the situation, her SNS system also activates and causes her heart to race. This is when both systems have been activated in her body.
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