Let me share with you a comparison between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nervous system.
| Aspect | Sympathetic Nervous System | Parasympathetic Nervous System |
| Introduction | It is known as fight or flight systems and activated during stress and emergencies. | It is known as the rest and digests system which predominates during periods of relaxation and recovery. |
| Effects on Target Organs | Excitatory effects | Inhibitory effects |
| Ganglia Location | Ganglia are typically located close to the spinal cord. | Ganglia are often located near or within the target organ. |
| Effects on Body Functions | Increases alertness, heart rate, and respiratory rate, while decreasing digestive and urinary functions. | Promotes relaxation, digestion, and recovery, while reducing heart rate and respiratory rate. |
| Effect on Pupils | Dilates the pupils to enhance vision during stress or arousal. | Constricts the pupils to conserve energy and reduce light exposure during rest. |
| Effect on digestive system | Slows down peristalsis and reducing blood flow to the gut. | Stimulates digestive processes, by increasing peristalsis and blood flow to the gut. |
| Effect on bladder | Inhibits bladder contractions, leading to reduced urination. | Promotes bladder contractions and urination. |
| Effects on Blood Vessels | Constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure and redirecting blood to vital organs. | Dilates blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and increasing blood flow to various tissues. |