Difference Between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic: The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are integral to the autonomic nervous system. They regulate involuntary bodily functions. The sympathetic system triggers the "fight or flight" response in stressful situations, increasing heart rate and preparing the body for action.
In contrast, the parasympathetic system induces the "rest and digest" state during relaxation and promotes activities like digestion and slowing the heart rate. These systems, with different roles and neurotransmitters, collaboratively maintain physiological balance. They ensure adaptability to diverse environmental stimuli and overall well-being. Read this article for complete details about the difference between sympathetic and parasympathetic.
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The autonomic nervous system comprises two divisions, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which serve opposing functions. The sympathetic nervous system acts like a car's accelerator, preparing the body for vigorous physical activity and triggering the “fight-or-flight” response when confronted with a perceived threat. The parasympathetic nervous system functions like a car's brake pedal, overseeing homeostasis and regulating the body during rest periods. It is integral to the “rest-and-digest” function, as it actively inhibits or decelerates various high-energy physiological processes
There are two branches of the autonomic nervous system. The parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems are these branches. The table distinguishes between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Difference Between Sympathetic And Parasympathetic | ||
---|---|---|
Basis | Sympathetic | Parasympathetic |
Activation and Response | Sympathetic is activated in response to stress, danger, or excitement ("fight or flight"). It increases the heart rate and redirects blood to muscles to prepare the body. | Parasympathetic is activated during relaxation or resting ("rest and digest"). It makes the heart beat slower, helps digest food, and sends blood to the digestive organs. |
Neurotransmitters | Norepinephrine is the primary neurotransmitter. | Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter. |
Effects on Organs | It increases alertness, boosts energy, and inhibits digestive processes temporarily. | It promotes digestion, lowers the heart rate, and conserves energy. |
Location of Ganglia | The ganglia is located close to the spinal cord. It forms a chain along its length. | The ganglia are generally located near or within the target organs. |
Overall Tone | It is associated with a "fight or flight" response. | It is associated with a "rest and digest" response. |
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is part of the autonomic nervous system and prepares the body for stressful conditions. It is located in the spinal cord near the lumbar and thoracic regions. The SNS can control critical physiological functions by triggering the body's fight or flight response. This response is activated when the body perceives a threat or attack on its survival.
The SNS enhances physical speed, tension, and alertness. The heart beats more quickly and contracts more forcefully. The SNS also facilitates the release of adrenaline from the adrenal gland. Adrenaline regulates the body's fight-or-flight response.
The SNS works through a network of interconnected neurons. Sympathetic neurons connect with peripheral sympathetic neurons through sympathetic ganglia. Preganglionic neurons are the sympathetic neurons located in the spinal cord. Postganglionic neurons are the counterparts of peripheral sympathetic neurons.
Preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine, which binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on postganglionic neurons. In response, postganglionic neurons produce noradrenaline. Noradrenaline and adrenaline produced by the adrenal gland bind to adrenergic receptors. This binding helps to respond to the fight-or-flight phase.
Parasympathetic is a branch of the autonomic nervous system. It conserves energy when the body is at rest, eating, or calm. It is located between the medulla and the spinal cord. It causes the gastrointestinal tract's glands and intestinal activity to rise and the heart rate to slow. The body's general functioning depends on the parasympathetic nervous system.
The parasympathetic nervous system is organized similarly to the sympathetic nervous system. It consists of preganglionic and postganglionic neurons. These neurons are located in the brainstem or lateral horn of the spinal cord. The preganglionic axon originates in the brainstem and projects to the parasympathetic ganglia. These ganglia are located near the heart or brain, and in organs such as the trachea, gastrointestinal tract, bronchial tubes, or urinary bladder.
Parasympathetic regulation of organs includes the following:
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