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Which division of the nervous system will be handling your body’s after-dinner activities: Parasympathetic Nerve
|
INVOLVED ORGANS |
MAJOR NERVE SUPPLY |
EFFECTS |
|
Salivary Glands |
Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) |
Production of saliva that helps in digestion |
|
Esophagus |
vagus nerve (X) and spinal nerves |
allow victuals to pass through by enabling involuntary muscle actions. |
|
Gallbladder |
Vagus nerve (X) |
stores and releases bile; aids in the breakdown of food |
|
Stomach |
Vagus nerve (X) |
controls motility |
|
Liver |
hepatic nervous plexus |
controls glucose uptake and increase secretion of bile |
|
Pancreas |
Vagus nerve (X) |
Releases enzymes needed for digestion as well as insulin |
|
Intestines |
Vagus nerve (X) |
Increases motility, and controls secretion |
|
Bladder |
Pelvic parasympathetic nerve |
Controls the muscle contractions and the urinary sphincter |
|
Rectum |
Pelvic parasympathetic nerve |
Regulates storage capacity and is responsible for getting rid of wastes |
|
Lungs |
Vagus nerve (X) |
Controls breathing |
|
Heart |
Vagus nerve (X) |
Lowers the heart rate |
2. This is due to the sympathetic nervous system, or most commonly known as the "fight-or-flight" response. This response enables the body to have survival mechanisms that are activated during life-threatening situations. The hormonal changes and physiological responses help in making decisions during split seconds. Moreover, heart rate and blood pressure increases as well as sweating profusely while also having an erect hair follicle (goosebumps).
Reference: Understanding the stress response - Harvard Health. (2011, March). Harvard Health; Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-the-stress-response