Why is the sympathetic division of autonomic nervous system known as flight or system?
The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is known as the "fight or flight" system because it prepares the body for survival responses in stressful or dangerous situations. When activated, the sympathetic nervous system triggers various physiological changes that help individuals cope with threats, such as:
1. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: The sympathetic nervous system accelerates heart rate and increases blood pressure, ensuring a rapid supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and organs. This prepares the body for physical exertion required in life-threatening situations.
2. Bronchodilation: The sympathetic nervous system causes the airways (bronchi) to dilate, allowing for increased oxygen intake and deeper breathing. This is essential for supporting the body's heightened energy requirements during stressful scenarios.
3. Muscle Tension and Energy Mobilization: The sympathetic division activates skeletal muscles and releases stored energy from fat cells, providing the necessary strength and endurance to respond to challenges.
4. Inhibition of Non-Essential Functions: It temporarily suppresses non-essential bodily functions, such as digestion, to redirect resources toward immediate survival responses.
5. Pupillary Dilation: The sympathetic system causes the pupils to dilate, allowing more light to enter the eyes, which enhances vision in low-light conditions that might be encountered during a fight or flight situation.
6. Sweating: The sympathetic nervous system triggers sweating, which cools down the body during physical exertion and helps regulate temperature in stressful environments.
7. Adrenaline Release: The activation of the sympathetic division leads to the release of hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) from the adrenal glands. Adrenaline further enhances the body's physiological responses to stressful conditions.
In essence, the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system prepares individuals to either confront a threat (fight) or escape from it (flight). It mobilizes the body's resources and physical abilities to respond effectively in challenging circumstances, prioritizing immediate survival over less critical functions.