Notes

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A collection of fragments of understanding in the pursuit of deeper questions.

Comparing Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Divisions

  • **Sympathetic:

    • Widespread impact.
    • Reaches organs and tissues throughout body.
  • Parasympathetic:

    • Innervates only specific visceral structures.

Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Divisions image109

What is the relationship between the two divisions of the ANS, and the significance of dual innervation? Dual Innervation

  • Most vital organs receive instructions from both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
  • The two divisions commonly have opposing effects.

Autonomic Tone The fact that we have this constant influx of para and sympathetic innervations in the organs. It is an important aspect of ANS function:

  • If nerve is inactive under normal conditions, can only increase activity.
  • If nerve maintains background level of activity, can increase or decrease activity.

Somatic and Visceral Motor Pathways

  • Many parallels in organization and function.
  • Integration at brain stem.
  • Both systems under control of higher centers.