How does the autonomic nervous system maintain homeostasis?
The autonomic nervous system consists of two major divisions: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. Learn how these two systems differ in their functions as they help the body maintain homeostasis.
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Transcript
The autonomic nervous system has two functions: to conserve the body’s energy and to respond quickly to stress. These functions are each handled by a separate branch of the autonomic system.
Conditions that stress the body are handled by the sympathetic nervous system. It responds by preparing your body for action. This is sometimes called “fight or flight.” For example, when you are stressed or scared, your heart pumps harder. Your heart rate and blood pressure increase. You breathe faster.
When the stress or fear passes, the parasympathetic nervous system brings the body back to normal conditions. Your heart rate slows. Your blood pressure decreases. Your breathing returns to normal.
Working together, the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems help the body maintain a steady state. This steady state is called homeostasis.
Conditions that stress the body are handled by the sympathetic nervous system. It responds by preparing your body for action. This is sometimes called “fight or flight.” For example, when you are stressed or scared, your heart pumps harder. Your heart rate and blood pressure increase. You breathe faster.
When the stress or fear passes, the parasympathetic nervous system brings the body back to normal conditions. Your heart rate slows. Your blood pressure decreases. Your breathing returns to normal.
Working together, the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems help the body maintain a steady state. This steady state is called homeostasis.