How Do You Spell PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM?

Pronunciation: [pˌaɹəsˌɪmpəθˈɛtɪk sˈɪstəm] (IPA)

The parasympathetic system controls our body's "rest and digest" response, counteracting the "fight or flight" response of the sympathetic nervous system. The spelling of parasympathetic is straightforward, with each syllable pronounced as written. The IPA phonetic transcription is /ˌpærəsɪmˈpæθətɪk ˈsɪstəm/, where the stressed syllables are indicated by the mark (ˈ) preceding them. Familiarizing oneself with the phonetic transcriptions of medical terminology such as this can aid in pronunciation and comprehension of complex medical terms.

PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM Meaning and Definition

  1. The parasympathetic system, also known as the parasympathetic nervous system or the craniosacral division, is a component of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that regulates various bodily functions and maintains homeostasis. It operates alongside the sympathetic system, which the body's flight or fight response, to balance and counteract its effects.

    The parasympathetic system primarily works to conserve energy, promote rest and relaxation, and promote the body's functionality during restful states. It is responsible for controlling several vital functions, such as digestion, reducing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, promoting digestion and nutrient absorption, constricting pupils, stimulating salivation, and enhancing sexual arousal and function.

    This system is composed of nerve fibers originating from the brainstem and the sacral region of the spinal cord. These fibers primarily release the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) to communicate information between nerve cells and target organs or tissues.

    Stimulation of the parasympathetic system occurs through the action of the vagus nerve, which sends signals to various organs, including the heart, lungs, digestive system, and urinary system. The response is typically characterized by a slowing down of these organs' activities, allowing the body to rest, recover, and maintain its internal equilibrium.

    Understanding the parasympathetic system's function and balance with the sympathetic system is essential for studying various physiological processes and their interactions within the body. Dysfunction or imbalances in the parasympathetic system can lead to several health conditions, such as impaired digestion, bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate), and other systemic dysregulations.

  2. Autonomic nervous system.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM

  • oarasympathetic system
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  • -arasympathetic system
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  • pzrasympathetic system
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  • paeasympathetic system
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  • paraaympathetic system
  • parazympathetic system

Etymology of PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM

The word "parasympathetic" originates from the Greek roots "para", meaning alongside, and "sympathetic", which is derived from "sympatheia", meaning affection or feeling. The term was first introduced by the German physiologist Max Einhorn in the late 19th century. The parasympathetic system is called so because it acts alongside or in cooperation with the sympathetic nervous system, forming a part of the autonomic nervous system.

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