Does The Sympathetic Nervous System Increase or Decrease Urination?
The sympathetic nervous system generally decreases urination. The sympathetic nervous system is a part of the autonomic nervous system (which regulates involuntary body functions), and it is responsible for the “fight or flight” response in the body. When the body perceives a threat or stressor, the sympathetic nervous system becomes activated.
During this response, several physiological changes occur in the body to prepare it for action. One of these changes is the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, which are known to decrease urine production. These hormones cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) in various parts of the body, including the kidneys. As a result, less blood flows to the kidneys, leading to a decrease in the production of urine.
Additionally, the activation of the sympathetic nervous system also leads to the relaxation of the urinary bladder muscles and constriction of the internal sphincter muscles. This combination of muscle actions prevents the release of urine from the bladder and promotes its retention.
However, it’s important to note that there are exceptions to this general rule. In certain situations, such as extreme fear or sudden intense excitement, the sympathetic response can cause an immediate relaxation of the urinary bladder muscles, leading to involuntary urination (a phenomenon known as “frightened pee”). But in general, under normal physiological conditions, the sympathetic nervous system tends to decrease urination.
More Answers:
Determining Oxygen Consumption during ActivitiesThe Mechanisms Behind Myosin Detachment and Muscle Relaxation
Exploring Water Movement in Cells