What part of the nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response?

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, which is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival. This system activates the body's energy reserves and enhances various physical capabilities to either confront or flee from danger.

During this response, the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the adrenal medulla to release hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine into the bloodstream. This leads to increased heart rate, dilation of the airways, increased blood flow to the muscles, and other changes that prepare the body for immediate physical exertion.

This is in contrast to the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest and digestion, and the central nervous system, which consists of the brain and spinal cord that process information. The somatic nervous system, on the other hand, is responsible for voluntary muscle movements and does not directly influence the "fight or flight" response. Therefore, understanding the sympathetic nervous system's crucial role in managing the body's response to stressors is essential for EMTs when assessing and responding to emergency situations.