Powered By Blogger

Monday 10 May 2010

The role of the nervous system in generating breathing rhythm


The nervous system is responsible for sending, receiving and processing nerve impulses throughout the body. Nerves are connected throughout the whole body to the brain. The nerves carry information throughout the body in the form of electrochemical signals called impulses.The nervous system has two parts , the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.The CNS is the control centre for all body systems, it receives sensory information,processes it and sends out a response. The PNS, the nerves carry messages from sensory receptors to the CNS and from the CNS to the effectors.



The brain acts as a device that makes sure that your body is functioning correctly and efficiently and making any adjustments necessary, it does this by sending out messages to the effectors.



Parts of the brain involved in generating the breathing rhythm are the medulla oblongata and the pons. The medulla oblongata is located at the the base of the brain. this parts manages automatic processes that take place inside your body, e.g heart rate, blood pressure and breathing adjustments.



Breathing is automatic and is controlled by your brain, the rate of breathing is set to meet the oxygen demands of your cells. The autonomic nervous system has two parts the sympathetic and parasympathetic. The sympathetic is mostly active in times of stress. and the parasympathetic controls maintenance and helps conserve the body's energy.

CGP NOTES
www.becomehealthynow.com/article/bodynervousadvance
Parsons, R. GCSE Physiology and health. The Revision Guide: Revisions guide pt.1&2 (paperback)

No comments:

Post a Comment