Review of PANS

In summation, the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is activated in times of relaxation. Focus is placed no longer on survival but instead on daily maintenance and recovery. To remember this think about the parasympathetic pig (see diagram). Our bodies must once again be stimulated through complex cross system interactions but in a much more controlled manner. A single preganglionic parasympathetic neuron may have as few as 2-5 targets. The somas of the preganglionic neurons are located in nuclei of the brain stem and the lateral horn of the sacral region of the spinal cord. These preganglionic neurons enter the parasympathetic terminal ganglion. This division utilizes only the neurotransmitter, ACh, at both the ganglion and the effector terming the overall response cholinergic.

 

The parasympathetic pig is relaxed, his: Heart beats slowly His digestive tract hogs energy He's drooling because of increased digestive secretions. He needs to breathe in more oxygen because his bronchioles are constricted He is defecating and urinating He has an erection (sympathetic NS controls ejaculation) His pupils are tiny compared to the frightened boy

 View the Autonomic Nervous System video to review two divisions of the ANS: SANS and PANS (opens in new window).

 

 

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