Sympathetic Part of the Autonomic Nervous System

Sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system is the part of the nervous system that is responsible for regulating body functions under extreme conditions such as stress, exercise or danger. The sympathetic system activates the heart, lungs, muscles, sweat glands and other organs to provide the body with energy and protect it from external threats.

The sympathetic nervous system consists of two sections: central and peripheral. The central section is located in the brain, and the peripheral section is located in the spinal cord and peripheral ganglia. The central division controls the functioning of the peripheral system through neurotransmitters such as adrenaline, norepinephrine and acetylcholine.

When the body is under stress, the sympathetic system is activated to prepare the body for action. This may include an increase in heart rate, dilation of the bronchi, increased muscle tone, and other responses that help the body cope with the threat.

However, activation of the sympathetic system can have negative consequences if it continues for too long. For example, a heart rate that is too high can lead to fatigue and exhaustion, while increased muscle tone can cause muscle spasms and pain. Therefore, the body must be able to control the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and switch to the parasympathetic system when necessary.

In general, the sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in regulating the body's functions and protecting it from external threats, but its activation must be balanced with the activity of the parasympathetic system to avoid negative consequences.



The sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system is a part of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's rapid reactions to changes in the external environment or situation, as well as for mobilizing energy in a stressful situation. It works in “fight or flight” mode, when the body needs a quick release of energy to maintain life and protect itself from danger. At the same time, the sympathetic nervous system can have both positive and negative effects on the body. In some situations, the sympathetic system can lead to increased activation and restlessness, which can cause sleep disturbances, eating disorders and other psychosomatic problems. Here are some of the main functions of the sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system.

1. Energy mobilization: the sympathetic nervous system helps the body switch to energy mobilization mode in an emergency situation - stress, physical activity, anxiety, etc. This can be manifested by increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, dilated pupils and other physiological reactions of the body. 2. Strengthening the immune system: during stress and other unfavorable external factors, the sympathetic part of the nervous system helps the body protect itself from dangerous microorganisms and viruses. This occurs due to increased interferon production and dilation of blood vessels, which allows more immune cells to penetrate the tissue. 3. Control of thermoregulation: sympathetic nervous system