The autonomic nervous system is a complex network of nerves that regulate unconscious processes in the body, such as breathing and heart rate. It is divided into three main sections, each with its own unique function:
Sympathetic Nervous System: This system activates the body's processes and is responsible for the "fight-or-flight" response.
Parasympathetic Nervous System: The opposite of the sympathetic nervous system, this part controls the "rest-and-digest" functions of the body.
Enteric Nervous System: This section manages digestion.
History
The autonomic nervous system was first recognised by Aelius Galenus (September 129 – 216 AD), a Greek physician, author, and philosopher, working in Rome. His studies of the nervous system, heart, and circulatory systems, although flawed, had surpassed anything previously known, and would be used until the 1500s.
In 1665, Thomas Willis (27 January 1621 – 11 November 1675), known as the father of neurology, published the most complete and accurate account of the nervous system of its time. Thomas Willis was also the first person to use the term "neurology."
In 1898, John Newport Langley (2 November 1852 – 5 November 1925) coined the term "autonomic nervous system" (ANS). He also defined the two divisions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in 1921.
Illness
Autonomic dysfunction, or dysautonomia, can occur when the autonomic nervous system malfunctions. Autonomic dysfunction can vary in symptoms and severity, and it can stem from a variety of different causes.
Understanding the autonomic nervous system is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Common forms of dysautonomia include:
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
Neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS)
Vasovagal Syncope (VVS)
Orthostatic Hypotension (OH)
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What's dysautonomia?
Sympathetic Nervous System
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Enteric Nervous System
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