Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

What are the two major divisions of the ANS?

• Sympathetic division
• Parasympathetic division

What is the primary function of the sympathetic division?

• Prepares the body for an emergency/stress response
• “Fight or flight”

What neurotransmitter is emphasized in the sympathetic division?

• Norepinephrine

What type of response is generally associated with the sympathetic division?

• Stimulating response

What is the primary function of the parasympathetic division?

• Conserves energy
• Restores energy
• “Rest and digest”

What neurotransmitter is emphasized in the parasympathetic division?

• Acetylcholine

What type of response is generally associated with the parasympathetic division?

• Inhibitory response

Does the ANS contain CNS, PNS, or both components?

• Portions of the CNS
• Portions of the PNS

What types of processes does the ANS primarily control?

• Involuntary processes

What structures are innervated by the ANS?

• Glands
• Internal organs
• Smooth muscle

What is a major overall function of the ANS?

• Maintain homeostasis
• Regulate the body's response to stress

Do autonomic impulses usually reach conscious awareness?

• Often no
• Responses are largely automatic

What body functions can the ANS regulate?

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Breathing rate
• Body temperature
• Digestion/metabolism
• Electrolyte balance
• Saliva, sweat, and tear production
• Urination and defecation
• Sexual response

What are examples of autonomic nervous system disorders?

• Constipation
• Erectile dysfunction
• Horner syndrome
• Vasovagal syncope
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Postural tachycardia syndrome

What can cause autonomic nervous system disorders?

• Damage to autonomic nerves
• Diabetes
• Alcoholism
• Primary damage to the ANS

Can ANS disorders be reversible or progressive?

• May be reversible
• May be progressive

How are ANS disorders typically treated?

• Pharmacological intervention
• PT plan of care may need modification based on findings

Compare sympathetic vs. parasympathetic activity

• Sympathetic: emergency / fight-or-flight

• Norepinephrine: emphasized neurotransmitter

• Parasympathetic: conserve/restore energy

• Acetylcholine: emphasized neurotransmitter