Pertaining to that part of the nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia that arise from the cranial and sacral regions and generally function in regulatory response to the sympathetic system; in the eye, causes contraction of the pupil of the eye.
The division of the autonomic nervous system that is involved with maintenance; it controls many of the internal organs and is active primarily when the organism is not aroused.
Part of the nervous system that, together with the sympathetic nervous system, forms the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls the functioning of involuntary structures, including the heart, glands, and smooth muscle. The parasympathetic nervous system regulates nerve transmissions to certain effector organs under normal conditions, as opposed to times of stress. It serves to "steady" involuntary activities and conserve or restore energy. Parasympathetic responses may include slowing of the heart and breathing rates, contraction of the pupils, an increase in glandular activity, and an acceleration in the rate of peristalsis.
One half of the autonomic nervous system. Tends to have a 'negative' effect on cells. For example, increased parasympathetic activity leads to an reduction in heart rate, reduced blood pressure, and reduced cell metabolism. Close this window
A subdivision of the body's nervous system that is automatic (not consciously controlled) and is involved in regulating the routine functions of the body, such as heartbeat, digestion, sleeping.
activates tranquil functions, such as stimulating the secretion of saliva or digestive enzymes into the stomach.
is one of the parts of the autonomic nervous system. It uses acetylcholine as its postganglionic neurotransmitter
a subdivision of the autonomic nervous system that returns the body to normal after an emergency.
A portion of the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system. Activity in the parasympathetic nervous system produces effects such as decreased blood pressure and decelerated heart beat. (Contrast with sympathetic nervous system.)
originates in the brain stem and lower part of the spinal cord; opposes physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system: stimulates digestive secretions; slows the heart; constricts the pupils; dilates blood vessels
PAR-ah-SIM-pah-THET-ik NER-vus SIS-tum Part of the autonomic nervous system that controls vital functions such as respiration and heart rate when at rest. 622
a network of nerves that controls involuntary, automatic physiological processes, such as dilation of blood vessels, slowing of heart-rate, narrowing of the pupils, and salivation. The sympathetic nervous system, generally, has opposite effects.
That part of the autonomic nervous system that creates what some call the "rest and digest" response. This system's responses oppose those of the sympathetic nervous system (see definition, below). For example, it causes heart rate and breathing rate to slow down, the blood vessels to dilate (improving blood flow), and activity to increase in many parts of the digestive tract.
craniosacral division of the autonomic nervous system primarily concerned with activities that conserve and restore body energy
This system is concerned with conservation and restoration of energy. It causes a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure and facilitates digestion, absorption of nutrients, and excretion of waste products.
a branch of the autonomic nervous system that tends to induce secretion, increase the tone and contraction of smooth muscle, and cause dilation of blood vessels.
the craniosacral division of the autonomic nervous system. Effects of parasympathetic stimulation are the constriction of the pupils, contraction of the smooth muscle of the alimentary canal, constriction of bronchioles, slowing of heart rate and increased secretion by glands, except sweat glands.
A branch of the autonomic nervous system concerned with the conservation of the body's energy and resources during relaxed states.
slows heart rate, increases gland activity and relaxes muscles which close passages.
Branch of the autonomic nervous system that slows the heart rate.
the division of the autonomic nervous system that calms the body and serves maintenance functions. (67)
the cranosacral part of the ANS; in general, increased activity of these neurons supports vegetative function such as digestion
Part of the nervous system with many functions, including control of the size of the airways. Works together with the sympathetic nervous system. Anticholinergic bronchodilators act on the parasympathetic nervous system and smooth muscle.
Part of the autonomic nervous system involved in the control of involuntary bodily functions, including control of cardiac and blood vessel activity. Stimulation of certain parasympathetic nerves causes the SA node to discharge at a slower rate and slows conduction through the AV node, which, in turn, extends the PR interval. See also autonomic nervous system and sympathetic nervous system.
One of two divisions of the autonomic nervous system; characterized by long preganglionic fibres from spinal cord. Excitatory and inhibitory actions on many viscera; acetylcholine is the major transmitter. Compare sympathetic nervous system.
A major part of the autonomic nervous system, mediated by the vagus nerve. Tends to slow down the heart rate
portion of the autonomic nervous system that is generally associated with increasing digestion and intestinal muscle activity; decreasing blood circulation and respiration
a division of the autonomic nervous system that tones down the excitatory effects of the sympathetic nervous system; slows metabolism and restores energy reserves
The parasympathetic nervous system is one of three divisions of the autonomic nervous system. Sometimes called the rest and digest system, the parasympathetic system conserves energy as it slows the heart rate, increases intestinal and gland activity, and relaxes sphincter muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.