Autonomic Nervous System (Noun)
Meaning
The part of the nervous system of vertebrates that controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles and heart and glands.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The autonomic nervous system regulates various involuntary functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing, to maintain homeostasis in the body.
- Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system can lead to conditions like orthostatic intolerance, where the body struggles to adjust to changes in posture.
- The autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress or danger.
- The autonomic nervous system is divided into two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system, which work together to maintain balance in the body.
- Damage to the autonomic nervous system can result in a range of symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, and abdominal pain, due to impaired regulation of involuntary functions.