Definition:
The autonomic nervous system is a part of the peripheral nervous system.
Autonomic nerves are composed of sympathetic and parasympathetic types.
Structure:
The autonomic nervous system is composed of sympathetic
and parasympathetic parts. Cranial
Nerve X, the vagus nerve, is the primary nerve, and chains of autonomic
nerves and plexi run along with the nerve trunks. These chains have ganglions
or cell body clusters, that communicate with the spinal
cord.
Function:
The autonomic nervous system is composed of sympathetic and parasympathetic
parts. Cranial Nerve X, the vagus
nerve, is the primary nerve carrying afferent signals from, and efferent
signals to both somatic and visceral organs. The chains and plexi of autonomic
nerves serve as an extended network of sensors and regulators of the smooth
muscle of the ocular, respiratory,
digestive, circulatory,
excretory, reproductive,endocrine, and the integumentary
systems.
