Ramus sympathetica

Ramus sympathetica

System	Autonomic nervous system

The ramus sympathetica refers to a branch of the sympathetic nervous system. This system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Structure

The ramus sympathetica consists of nerve fibers that connect the sympathetic ganglia to the spinal nerves. These fibers are responsible for transmitting sympathetic signals from the central nervous system to various target organs and tissues throughout the body.

Function

The primary function of the ramus sympathetica is to facilitate the "fight or flight response" by increasing heart rate, dilating bronchioles, and redirecting blood flow to skeletal muscles. It also plays a role in regulating sweat glands and piloerection (goosebumps).

Clinical significance

Damage or dysfunction of the ramus sympathetica can lead to various autonomic disorders, such as Horner's syndrome, which is characterized by ptosis, miosis, and anhidrosis.

See also

• Sympathetic nervous system
• Autonomic nervous system
• Parasympathetic nervous system