MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The autonomic nervous system is a component of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary physiologic processes including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, digestion, and sexual arousal. It contains three anatomically distinct divisions: sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric.

Detailed explanation-2: -The medulla oblongata is the rod-shaped part of the brain which is seen below the cerebrum, located near the cerebellum of the brain. It controls involuntary actions like heartbeat and breathing.

Detailed explanation-3: -Although most of the autonomic nervous system responses are involuntary, they can integrate with the somatic nervous system, which is responsible for the voluntary movements. For example, in the case of defecation, there is an interplay between voluntary and involuntary movements.

Detailed explanation-4: -The autonomic nervous system regulates certain body processes, such as blood pressure and the rate of breathing. This system works automatically (autonomously), without a person’s conscious effort.