Increased heart rate and blood pressure are primarily caused by stimulation of which system?

Increased heart rate and blood pressure are primarily the result of stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. This part of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response, which prepares the body to react in stressful situations. When the sympathetic system is activated, it leads to the release of catecholamines, such as adrenaline, which increases heart rate and contractility of the heart muscle, ultimately elevating blood pressure.

The sympathetic system also causes vasoconstriction in various tissues, which further raises blood pressure. This physiological response is crucial in situations requiring increased blood flow to vital organs and muscles, enabling the body to handle stress or danger effectively. Understanding the role of the sympathetic nervous system is essential for those working in oral and maxillofacial surgery, as this knowledge influences perioperative care and management of patients' cardiovascular responses during procedures.