Autonomic Nervous System Basics Flashcards
Basics of ANS function, effects, and receptors
What does the ANS regulate (3)
- the heart
- secretory glands
- smooth muscles
When does the SNS activate?
in acute, stressful situations
Exercise Excitement Emotions
SNS effect on the eyes
mydriasis - pupil dilation via contraction of the pupillary muscles
Mydriasis (meaning)
dilation of the pupil via contraction of the pupillary muscles = SNS effect
SNS effect on the brain
increased focus, attention (increased blood flow to brain)
SNS effect on the heart
increased HR and force of contraction
SNS effect on blood vessels
vasodilation OR vasoconstriction
some have adrenergic and some have cholinergic receptors (depends on which are stimulated)
SNS effects on the lungs
dilation of the bronchi
(allows increased airflow, maximizes oxygen)
SNS effects on the adrenal glands
stimulates the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline into the blood stream
SNS effects on the sex organs
increases reproductive success
a. ejaculation
b. contraction of the vagina
c. relaxation of the uterus
SNS effects on the urinary system
a. relaxation of the detrusor muscle
b. contraction of the internal urinary sphincter
**prevents urination/ urinary urgency
SNS effects on the digestive system
decreases gastrointestinal secretions and motility
SNS effect on liver/ adipose tissue
increase in glycogenolysis, lipolysis
**increase in release of stored energy substrates for conversion into energy
SNS effect on sweat glands
diaphoresis
**cool down muscles
SNS effect on coagulation
increased
**increased blood flow increases clotting agents available at any given location
SNS effect on kidneys
stimulates the release of renin
**renin release increases BP
Neurons of the SNS exit in the:
thoraco-lumbar region (T1-L2)
SNS neuron structure
short preganglionic
long postganglionic
= diffuse (generalized) effects
SNS post-ganglionic neuron features
can function as a:
a. neuron (releases NTs)
b. adrenal medulla (releases
hormones)
SNS produces _____ effects
diffuse (generalized) effects
d/t: long post-ganglionic
neuron releasing NTs and
adrenal medulla releasing
hormones
When does the PNS activate?
for maintenance functions of the body
Digestion Defecation Diuresis
PNS effect on the eyes
a. miosis - pupil contraction via relaxation of the pupillary iris muscle
b. accommodation - contraction of the ciliary muscle to allow for near vision
miosis (meaning)
relaxation of the pupillary iris muscle = PNS effect
accommodation (meaning)
contraction of the ciliary muscle allowing for near vision = PNS effect
PNS effect on the heart
reduced HR, slightly reduced force of contraction of the atria
PNS effect on the blood vessels
little to no effect –> largely SNS regulated
PNS effect on the lungs
a. bronchoconstriction (not as
much oxygen needed at rest)
b. increased secretions
PNS effect on adrenal glands
decrease secretions
PNS effect on sex organs
erection
PNS effect on urinary system
a. contraction of bladder
b. relaxation of the internal urinary sphincter
**allows for urination
PNS effect on the digestive system
stimulation of gastrointestinal motility, increased gastric secretions
**promotes emptying of bowels
Neurons of the PNS exit in the:
craniosacral region
a. cranial nerves III, VII, IX, X
b. Sacral nerves S2, S3, S4
Structure of the PNS neurons:
preganglionic neurons = long
preganglionic neurons = short
= localized effects