ANAT0003 - Autonomic nervous system and cranial nerves

- Mediates the ‘fight or flight’ response which occurs in response to perceived harmful events or threats to survival and a series of bodily changes are triggered to prepare the body for rapid action. - Innervates structures such as the eyes, salivary glands, and blood vessels in the head which causes pupil dilation and inhibition of saliva production during stress. - Innervates thoracic structures like the heart and lungs. Noradrenaline released from the postganglionic neuron acts on adrenergic receptors on the heart, increasing heart rate and the force of contraction which also increases blood pressure. Innervation also leads to the smooth muscles in the bronchi to relax, leading to dilation which supports heightened physical activity - Innervates the pelvic and abdominal viscera such as the intestines and bladder which causes reduced blood flow to the digestive organs and inhibition of digestive processes during stress.