The Mystery of Medicine: The Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

Abstract: The autonomic nervous system in our body adapts to changes in the internal and external environment and controls vital structures such as the heart, vessels, intestines, and reproductive organs in our body. It mainly consists of two components: the sympathetic system, which causes the “fight or flight” response, especially in the presence of danger, a threat or in a state of panic, etc.; and the parasympathetic nervous system, whose intrinsic properties shortly referred to as “rest and digest” help to calm down the body, allow growth and development and lower the level of stress.

As the stress factors in our routine life rise, the autonomic nervous system dysfunction may cause numerous disorders and diseases including depression, headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep problems, cardiac problems, and etc. Understanding the autonomic nervous system and its dysfunctions will actually increase your awareness with regard to these problems, and potential solutions.

Author: Ali Veysel Özden, M.D., Ph.D.

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