The Nervous System Physiology

28/02/2014 12:05

Functions of the Nervous System
There are 3 main functions of the nervous system: Sensory, integration and Motor.

  • Sensory: the main function of the nervous system when we are talking about the sensory function is that this involves collecting information from the sensory receptors that monitor the internal and external conditions of the body.

  • Integration: this process integrates many sensory signals that passes through the central nervous system. As well this process take place in the gray matter and is performed by the interneurons

  • Motor:The main purpose of tis function is to carry signals from the gray matter of the central nervous system. 

The Divisions of the Nervous System

Central Nervous System
The two main structures that form the central nervous system is The brain and spinal cord. 

Peripheral Nervous System
The peripheral nervous system includes  the parts of the nervous system outside of the brain and spinal cord (cranial and spinal nerves, ganglia, and sensory receptors).

Somatic Nervous System
The somatic nervous system includes all of the voluntary efferent neurons. 

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous systemt includes all of the involuntary efferent neurons. The ANS controls subconscious effectors       (visceral muscle tissue, cardiac muscle tissue, and glandular tissue).

There are 2 divisions of the Autonomic Nervous System in the body: the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

  • Sympathetic. The sympathetic division forms the body’s response to stress, danger, excitement, exercise, emotions, and embarrassment. The sympathetic division increases respiration and heart rate, releases adrenaline and other stress hormones, and decreases digestion to cope with these situations.
     
  • Parasympathetic. The parasympathetic division forms the body’s response when the body is relaxed, resting, or feeding. The parasympathetic works to undo the work of the sympathetic division after a stressful situation. Among other functions, the parasympathetic division works to decrease respiration and heart rate, increase digestion, and permit the elimination of wastes.

Figures: retrieved from google images

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