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Regulation of heart rate is influenced by several factors.
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Regulation of heart rate is influenced by several factors We know that the heart is capable of beating independently of its bodily control systems. However, in order to adapt its rate to the changing needs of the body, it is subject to the most careful regulation by the nervous system. Additional factors such as hormones, fluctuations in body temperature, and concentrations of various ions also influence heart rate. Autonomic Nervous System The heart is innervated by both components of the autonomic nervous system. Parasympathetic fibres decrease heart rate, whereas sympathetic fibres increase heart rate. Parasympathetic innervation originates in the cardiac inhibitory centre in the medulla oblongata of the brain stem and is conveyed to the heart by way of the vagus nerve (Cranial Nerve X). Both the SA and AV nodes are richly supplied with vagal fibres. There is a minor distribution of vagal fibres to muscle of the atria and ventricles. When...
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