The Autonomic Nervous System

These flashcards encompass vocabulary terms related to the Autonomic Nervous System, including its functions, divisions, neurotransmitters, receptors, and relevant medical conditions.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

A system consisting of motor neurons that innervate smooth & cardiac muscles and glands, functioning involuntarily.

Sympathetic division

Part of the ANS that mobilizes body systems during activity; associated with the 'fight or flight' response.

Parasympathetic division

Part of the ANS that conserves energy and promotes 'rest and digest' activities.

Cholinergic receptors

Receptors that bind acetylcholine (ACh), including nicotinic and muscarinic receptors.

Adrenergic receptors

Receptors that bind norepinephrine (NE), divided into alpha and beta subclasses.

Neurotransmitter

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another; key neurotransmitters in the ANS include ACh and NE.

Visceral motor

Refers to the involuntary movements of cardiac muscles, smooth muscles, and glands, controlled by the ANS.

Somatic nervous system

The part of the peripheral nervous system associated with the voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles.

Autonomic neuropathy

Damage to autonomic nerves, often associated with diabetes, leading to symptoms like dizziness and urinary incontinence.

Sympathetic tone

The continual partial constriction of blood vessels controlled by the sympathetic division, regulating blood pressure.

Parasympathetic tone

Refers to the slowing of the heart and regulation of digestive and urinary system activity by the parasympathetic division.

Nicotinic receptors

Cholinergic receptors found on motor end plates and all ganglionic neurons, always stimulatory.

Muscarinic receptors

Cholinergic receptors found on effector cells stimulated by postganglionic cholinergic fibers, can be either inhibitory or excitatory.

Autonomic dysreflexia

Uncontrolled activation of autonomic neurons, often occurring in spinal cord injuries.

Raynaud’s disease

A condition characterized by exaggerated vasoconstriction triggered by stress or cold, leading to pale fingers and toes.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter in the ANS that is released by cholinergic fibers, important for both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter primarily associated with the sympathetic division, released by adrenergic fibers.

Neostigmine

A drug that inhibits acetylcholinesterase, used to treat myasthenia gravis.

Beta-blockers

Medications that mainly attach to beta-1 receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.

Sympathomimetic agents

Drugs that enhance sympathetic activity, often increasing release of norepinephrine.

Anticholinergic

Drugs that block parasympathetic effects by blocking muscarinic receptors, such as atropine.

Excitatory neurotransmitter

A neurotransmitter like norepinephrine that stimulates action in the target organ.

Inhibitory neurotransmitter

A neurotransmitter that inhibits action in the target organ, depending on the receptor type.