Arkansas Esthetician Practice Exam

What is the subsystem of the autonomic system that slows the heart rate, dilates blood vessels, and lowers blood pressure?

1. Parasympathetic nervous system

2. Sympathetic nervous system

3. Central nervous system

4. Enteric nervous system

The correct answer is: Parasympathetic nervous system

The correct choice is indeed the parasympathetic nervous system. This subsystem of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for promoting a state of rest and relaxation within the body. When activated, it slows the heart rate, dilates blood vessels, and decreases blood pressure, facilitating a calming effect that allows the body to conserve energy and recover from stress. The parasympathetic system operates through the release of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, which helps in achieving these calming effects. This contrasts with the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for "fight or flight" responses by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, thereby competing against the effects of the parasympathetic system. The central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, primarily processes and coordinates information but does not directly control heart rate or blood vessels in the same way. Similarly, the enteric nervous system governs the functions of the gastrointestinal system but is not directly involved in regulating cardiovascular activities like those associated with heart rate and blood pressure.