Ääreisnärvestön

Ääreisnärvestön refers to the peripheral nervous system in Estonian. This system is a crucial part of the overall nervous system, comprising all the nerves that lie outside of the brain and spinal cord. Its primary function is to connect the central nervous system (CNS) to the limbs and organs, effectively acting as a communication network. The peripheral nervous system is broadly divided into two main components: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.

The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, allowing us to consciously move our muscles. It also transmits sensory information, such as touch, pain, and temperature, from the body to the CNS. This allows us to perceive our environment.

The autonomic nervous system, on the other hand, regulates involuntary bodily functions. These include processes like heart rate, digestion, breathing, and glandular secretions. The autonomic nervous system is further subdivided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which often work in opposition to maintain homeostasis within the body. The sympathetic system prepares the body for action (fight or flight), while the parasympathetic system promotes rest and recovery (rest and digest). Damage to the peripheral nervous system can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weakness, numbness, pain, and loss of coordination.