Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

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Problem 26

Textbook Question

You are home alone at night when you hear what sounds like breaking glass. What physiological effects would this experience probably produce, and what would be their cause?

Verified step by step guidance

Recognize that the situation described would likely activate the body's 'fight or flight' response, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic division.

Understand that the hypothalamus in the brain would detect the perceived threat and signal the adrenal medulla to release stress hormones, primarily adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine, into the bloodstream.

Explain that these hormones would cause physiological effects such as increased heart rate (tachycardia), elevated blood pressure, and dilation of the bronchioles to enhance oxygen delivery to muscles.

Describe how blood flow would be redirected from non-essential areas (like the digestive system) to essential areas (like skeletal muscles) to prepare the body for action, either to confront the threat or escape from it.

Note that other effects might include pupil dilation (to improve vision in low light), increased glucose release from the liver for energy, and heightened alertness due to activation of the reticular activating system in the brain.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Fight or Flight Response

The fight or flight response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived threat. It is triggered by the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to either confront or flee from danger. This response can lead to increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and a surge of energy, all aimed at enhancing survival in threatening situations.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is a part of the autonomic nervous system that activates the body's rapid involuntary response to stressful situations. When you hear a sound like breaking glass, this system is stimulated, leading to physiological changes such as dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and redirected blood flow to essential muscles. This prepares the body for immediate action in response to danger.

Stress Hormones

Stress hormones, primarily adrenaline and cortisol, are released during stressful situations to help the body cope with perceived threats. Adrenaline increases heart rate and energy availability, while cortisol helps regulate metabolism and immune responses. Together, these hormones facilitate the body's ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, such as the fear induced by unexpected noises at night.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

Dual innervation refers to situations in which

(a) Vital organs receive instructions from both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers.

(b) The atria and ventricles of the heart receive autonomic stimulation from the same nerves.

(d) All of these are correct.

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Textbook Question

Why does sympathetic function remain intact even when the anterior roots of the cervical spinal nerves are damaged?

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Textbook Question

During sympathetic stimulation, a person may begin to feel 'on edge'; this is the result of

(a) Increased energy metabolism by muscle tissue

(b) Increased cardiovascular activity

(d) Temporary insensitivity to painful stimuli

(e) Decreased levels of epinephrine in the blood

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Textbook Question

Under which of the following circumstances would the diameter of peripheral blood vessels be greatest?

(a) Increased sympathetic stimulation

(b) Decreased sympathetic stimulation

(d) Decreased parasympathetic stimulation

(e) Both increased parasympathetic and sympathetic stimulation

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Textbook Question

The condition known as shock is characterized in part by a decreased return of venous blood to the heart. How could an upsetting situation, such as the sight of a tragic accident or very bad news, produce some temporary symptoms of shock?

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Textbook Question

Regulation of heart rate, blood pressure, and digestive functions is carried out by the:

a. Somatic motor division of the peripheral nervous system.

b. Central nervous system.

c. Visceral sensory division of the peripheral nervous system.

d. Autonomic nervous system.

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.