{"id":3659,"date":"2021-01-04T05:02:40","date_gmt":"2021-01-04T04:02:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wordpress-693453-2291131.cloudwaysapps.com\/?p=3659"},"modified":"2021-05-22T00:23:53","modified_gmt":"2021-05-21T22:23:53","slug":"sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/","title":{"rendered":"Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic: What is the difference between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic: Both Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems are a part of your body\u2019s Autonomic Nervous System but are responsible for different functions. The most significant difference between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems lies in the body\u2019s response. While the former prepares the body for instant activity, the latter inhibits it from working.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_64 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-661587b2e1c77\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-661587b2e1c77\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#defining-sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-nervous-systems-for-understanding\" title=\"Defining Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous Systems for understanding\">Defining Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous Systems for understanding<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#what-is-the-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"What is the Sympathetic Nervous System?\">What is the Sympathetic Nervous System?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#what-is-the-parasympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?\">What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#listing-the-similarities-between-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Listing the similarities between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous System\">Listing the similarities between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#considering-the-pros-and-cons-of-both-the-systems\" title=\"Considering the pros and cons of both the systems\">Considering the pros and cons of both the systems<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#pros-of-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Pros of Sympathetic Nervous System\">Pros of Sympathetic Nervous System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#cons-of-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Cons of Sympathetic Nervous System\">Cons of Sympathetic Nervous System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#pros-of-parasympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Pros of Parasympathetic Nervous System\">Pros of Parasympathetic Nervous System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#cons-of-parasympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Cons of Parasympathetic Nervous System\">Cons of Parasympathetic Nervous System<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#is-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic-faster\" title=\"Is sympathetic or parasympathetic faster?\">Is sympathetic or parasympathetic faster?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#list-down-some-examples-of-the-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-systems-of-the-brain\" title=\"List down some examples of the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems of the brain\">List down some examples of the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems of the brain<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#examples-of-the-sympathetic-systems\" title=\"Examples of the sympathetic systems\">Examples of the sympathetic systems<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#examples-of-the-parasympathetic-systems\" title=\"Examples of the parasympathetic systems\">Examples of the parasympathetic systems<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#how-does-the-activation-of-the-sympathetic-nervous-system-affect-your-body\" title=\"How does the activation of the sympathetic nervous system affect your body?\">How does the activation of the sympathetic nervous system affect your body?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#is-blood-pressure-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic\" title=\"Is blood pressure sympathetic or parasympathetic?\">Is blood pressure sympathetic or parasympathetic?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#how-do-you-activate-the-parasympathetic-system\" title=\"How do you activate the parasympathetic system?\">How do you activate the parasympathetic system?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#how-is-the-body-affected-by-a-damaged-parasympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"How is the body affected by a damaged parasympathetic nervous system?\">How is the body affected by a damaged parasympathetic nervous system?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#how-do-you-calm-an-overactive-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"How do you calm an overactive sympathetic nervous system?\">How do you calm an overactive sympathetic nervous system?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#what-triggers-the-sympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"What triggers the sympathetic nervous system?\">What triggers the sympathetic nervous system?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#is-increased-heart-rate-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic\" title=\"Is increased heart rate sympathetic or parasympathetic?\">Is increased heart rate sympathetic or parasympathetic?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#differentiating-between-the-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic-nervous-system\" title=\"Differentiating between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system\">Differentiating between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#comparison-chart\" title=\"Comparison Chart\">Comparison Chart<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#comparison-video\" title=\"Comparison Video\">Comparison Video<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#what-is-more-important-between-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-nervous-systems\" title=\"What is more important between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous Systems?\">What is more important between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous Systems?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-what-is-the-difference-between-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic\/#disclaimer\" title=\"Disclaimer\">Disclaimer<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"defining-sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-nervous-systems-for-understanding\"><\/span>Defining Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous Systems for understanding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what-is-the-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>What is the Sympathetic Nervous System?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sympathetic Nervous System is a part of the Autonomic Nervous System responsible for alerting the body suddenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what-is-the-parasympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Parasympathetic Nervous System is a part of the Autonomic Nervous System responsible for calming the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"listing-the-similarities-between-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Listing the similarities between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous System<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Both are part of the Autonomic Nervous System of our body.<\/li><li>Both Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nerves are involved in involuntary functions of the body.<\/li><li>Both Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Divisions of the Autonomic Nervous System impact the physiological processes of the body. Such processes include digestion, circulation, respiration, reproduction, and urination.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Pathways of both are composed of the preganglionic and postganglionic neurons.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"considering-the-pros-and-cons-of-both-the-systems\"><\/span>Considering the pros and cons of both the systems<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"pros-of-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Pros of Sympathetic Nervous System<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>It prepares your body for emergencies.<\/li><li>It alerts your body immediately.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"cons-of-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Cons of Sympathetic Nervous System<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>It brings your body out of the resting position.<\/li><li>An active Sympathetic Nervous System won\u2019t allow you to sleep.<\/li><li>Your blood pressure and heart rate will increase suddenly with an overactive sympathetic system.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"pros-of-parasympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Pros of Parasympathetic Nervous System<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>It prepares your body for rest.<\/li><li>It helps you enjoy a sound sleep.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"cons-of-parasympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Cons of Parasympathetic Nervous System<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Your alertness levels drop significantly.<\/li><li>Your blood pressure and heart rate will decrease suddenly with an overactive parasympathetic system.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"is-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic-faster\"><\/span>Is sympathetic or parasympathetic faster?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When considering the Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Nervous System for speed of action, the former is faster. Since the Sympathetic Nervous System has a shorter neuron pathway, it tends to be faster than the Parasympathetic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"list-down-some-examples-of-the-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-systems-of-the-brain\"><\/span>List down some examples of the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems of the brain<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some examples of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems of the brain:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"examples-of-the-sympathetic-systems\"><\/span>Examples of the sympathetic systems<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>It increases blood pressure and heart rate.<\/li><li>It dilates the pupils and bronchial tubes.<\/li><li>It decreases the production of saliva.<\/li><li>It releases adrenaline.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"examples-of-the-parasympathetic-systems\"><\/span>Examples of the parasympathetic systems<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>It decreases blood pressure and heart rate.&nbsp;<\/li><li>It constricts the pupils and bronchial tubes.<\/li><li>It increases the production of saliva.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-does-the-activation-of-the-sympathetic-nervous-system-affect-your-body\"><\/span>How does the activation of the sympathetic nervous system affect your body?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With the activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System, the body goes into hyperactive mode along with getting goosebumps (piloerection). The blood pressure increases, the heartbeat accelerates, blood vessels constrict, bronchial passages widen, pupils dilate, and the perspiration rate increases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"is-blood-pressure-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic\"><\/span>Is blood pressure sympathetic or parasympathetic?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Though both the branches have their roles in impacting blood pressure, the Sympathetic Nervous System plays a significant role in regulating blood pressure.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-do-you-activate-the-parasympathetic-system\"><\/span>How do you activate the parasympathetic system?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Since Parasympathetic System induces a calming state in the body, it can be activated by activities like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Practicing yoga<\/li><li>Spending time with nature<\/li><li>Splashing cold water on the face<\/li><li>Meditation<\/li><li>Getting a massage<\/li><li>Praying<\/li><li>Practicing deep breathing<\/li><li>Mild exercising<\/li><li>Cultivating healthy intestinal bacteria.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-is-the-body-affected-by-a-damaged-parasympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>How is the body affected by a damaged parasympathetic nervous system?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A damaged Parasympathetic Nervous System would mean a broken pathway for all the messages being exchanged between the brain and the related organs. The major organs affected would be the ones connected to the Vagus Nerve, like the liver, kidneys, pancreas, stomach, bladder, gallbladder, vagina, penis, and anal sphincter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how-do-you-calm-an-overactive-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>How do you calm an overactive sympathetic nervous system?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to calm an overactive Sympathetic Nervous System is to release the pent up energy by channeling it the right way. Such ways include major lifestyle changes that include calm-inducing activities like yoga, meditation, creative practices like drawing or painting, etc. It can also be brought back to normal by consciously reducing stress by adopting an optimistic life approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what-triggers-the-sympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>What triggers the sympathetic nervous system?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Stress triggers the Sympathetic Nervous System.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"is-increased-heart-rate-sympathetic-or-parasympathetic\"><\/span>Is increased heart rate sympathetic or parasympathetic?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With stress kicking in, the heart rate increases. Thus, the Sympathetic Nervous System is responsible for it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"differentiating-between-the-sympathetic-and-parasympathetic-nervous-system\"><\/span>Differentiating between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Drawing up a sympathetic vs. parasympathetic chart or table will help you understand the difference between them better:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table aligncenter\"><table><thead><tr><th>Basis<\/th><th>Sympathetic Nervous System<\/th><th>Parasympathetic Nervous System<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Function<\/td><td>Its function is to prepare the body for stress or a potential danger.<\/td><td>Its function is to prepare the body to move into a calm state.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Systemic effect<\/td><td>It involves an \u2018alarm\u2019 effect, i.e., fight or flight response.<\/td><td>It involves \u2018homeostasis\u2019 maintenance, i.e., permitting rest and digest response.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Location<\/td><td>It is located near the thoracic and lumbar regions in the spinal cord.<\/td><td>It is located between the spinal cord and the medulla.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Blood pressure<\/td><td>Blood pressure increases.<\/td><td>Blood pressure decreases.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Blood flow<\/td><td>Blood flow decreases to the digestive tract.<\/td><td>Blood flow increases to the digestive tract.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stress hormones<\/td><td>Production of stress hormones like cortisol increase as a result of perceived danger.<\/td><td>Production of stress hormones decreases to induce the feeling of relaxation.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Blood sugar<\/td><td>Glucose is quickly released to match up the enhanced energy levels.<\/td><td>Blood sugar levels stay normal as the body enters the resting state.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Response time<\/td><td>Since the neuron pathways are short, the response time is faster.<\/td><td>With longer neuron pathways, the response time is slower.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Salivary glands<\/td><td>Salivary glands decrease saliva production.&nbsp;<\/td><td>Salivary glands produce more saliva.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Adrenal gland<\/td><td>It releases adrenaline.<\/td><td>There is no action by the adrenal gland.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pupils<\/td><td>The pupils dilate.<\/td><td>The pupils constrict.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Heartbeat<\/td><td>Heartbeat increases.<\/td><td>Heartbeat slows down with a calming effect.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Gallbladder<\/td><td>It inhibits the gallbladder activity.<\/td><td>It stimulates gallbladder activity.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Intestines<\/td><td>It inhibits intestinal activity.<\/td><td>It stimulates intestinal activity.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Lungs<\/td><td>The airway relaxes.<\/td><td>The airway constricts.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"comparison-chart\"><\/span>Comparison Chart<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"381\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-381x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic: discover their Differences, Similarities, Pros &amp; Cons, as well as their Examples. We also will answer some of your frequently asked questions and find which is more important.\" class=\"wp-image-3669\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-381x1024.jpg 381w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-112x300.jpg 112w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-768x2063.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-572x1536.jpg 572w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-762x2048.jpg 762w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart-788x2117.jpg 788w, https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/sympathetic-vs-parasympathetic-Comparison-Chart.jpg 744w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 381px) 100vw, 381px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"comparison-video\"><\/span>Comparison Video<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic Nervous System | Physiology\" width=\"840\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/hjuF_VbIj9I?feature=oembed&#038;enablejsapi=1&#038;origin=https:\/\/www.difference101.com\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption>Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic Nervous System | Physiology<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what-is-more-important-between-parasympathetic-and-sympathetic-nervous-systems\"><\/span>What is more important between Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous Systems?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Conclusion: Both these systems are important for the efficient functioning of our bodies. The Sympathetic Nervous System alerts our body in emergencies and helps us take appropriate action immediately. On the other hand, the Parasympathetic Nervous System restores our bodies to a state of rest by calming down internal organs\u2019 functioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"disclaimer\"><\/span>Disclaimer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This article may contain obsolete or inaccurate information. Only a healthcare professional is qualified to provide medical advice, and only the health authorities in your country have the authority to issue public health guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Site and application cannot and do not contain medical\/health and related subjects, advice, or treatment. The medical\/health and related subjects information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice or treatment. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical\/health and related subjects, advice, or treatment. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE OR OUR MOBILE APPLICATION IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you think you may have a medical\/health emergency, contact your doctor, medical\/health professional, or other qualified medical\/health providers immediately.For more information, check our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/terms\/\">TOS &amp; Disclaimer<\/a> page.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic: discover their Differences, Similarities, Pros &amp; Cons, as well as their Examples. We also will answer some of your frequently asked questions and find which is more important.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3668,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_gspb_post_css":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[157],"tags":[831,645,644],"offerexpiration":[],"lang":"en","translations":{"en":3659},"pll_sync_post":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3659"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3659"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3659\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3668"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3659"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3659"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3659"},{"taxonomy":"offerexpiration","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.difference101.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/offerexpiration?post=3659"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}