Visceral reflex

Definition

A visceral reflex is an automatic, unconscious response of internal organs to a stimulus, mediated by the autonomic nervous system. It helps maintain homeostasis by adjusting the functions of the heart, glands, and smooth muscles within organs.

Related terms

Autonomic Nervous System:

The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary actions of muscles and glands.

Homeostasis:

The process by which an organism maintains a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment.

Baroreflex: A feedback mechanism that helps maintain blood pressure at nearly constant levels by adjusting heart rate and blood vessel diameter