1. Health

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

From , former About.com Guide

Updated June 24, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is an unconscious control system that helps the body maintain a stable, constant condition and adapt to stressful situations. The ANS controls heart rate, digestion, respiration rate, salivation, perspiration, diameter of the pupils, urination, and sexual arousal.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.