Question

Compare and contrast.

Sympathetic Nervous System and Parasympathetic Nervous System

Answer 1

Sympathetic Nervous System and Parasympathetic Nervous System are parts of Autonomic Nervous System. Sympathetic nervous system prepares our body to face stressful and threatening situations. It prepares us for a 'flight or fight' reaction. For example, if you are chased by a dog, your heartbeat and breathing rate increases and you start sweating. Parasympathetic Nervous System takes over when the situation becomes normal. When this system takes over, your heart rate, palpitation and sweating becomes normal. We regain our composed state. It directs our body to store energy for emergencies.