Sympathetic Nervous System

Definition

The sympathetic nervous system is a part of the nervous system that helps regulate many body functions, particularly in response to stress or danger, commonly known as the 'fight or flight' response.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The sympathetic nervous system is a component of the autonomic nervous system that orchestrates the body's rapid involuntary response to dangerous or stressful situations by increasing heart rate, redirecting blood flow to muscles, and releasing stored energy, thereby enhancing the body's ability to perform under stress.

Benefits

• Helps in quick response to stress or danger.
• Enhances alertness and energy levels.
• Promotes faster cardiovascular and respiratory performance during physical activity.

Examples

• Increased heart rate during exercise.
• Sweating and adrenaline release in response to a perceived threat.

Additional Information

• Effects: The sympathetic nervous system increases the body's metabolic rate, hence influencing the resting metabolic rate by stimulating processes like gluconeogenesis and lipolysis.

Related Terms

• Parasympathetic Nervous System
• Autonomic Nervous System
• Fight or Flight Response
• Adrenaline
• Cortisol

References

• Anatomy and Physiology of the Autonomic Nervous System
• The Sympathetic Nervous System and Metabolic Rate