BLADDER SPHINCTER Meaning and
Definition
-
The bladder sphincter refers to a muscular structure that regulates the flow of urine from the bladder to the urethra. It is composed of two main components, the internal sphincter and the external sphincter.
The internal sphincter, also known as the involuntary or smooth muscle sphincter, is located at the neck of the bladder surrounding the urethra. Its primary function is to control the release of urine by exerting pressure on the urethra, preventing its involuntary opening. This sphincter is under involuntary control by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the parasympathetic branch.
The external sphincter, on the other hand, is composed of skeletal muscle fibers and is located slightly lower down the urethra. It encircles the urethra and surrounds the internal sphincter. Unlike the internal sphincter, the external sphincter is under voluntary control, allowing an individual to consciously decide when to release or retain urine.
The coordinated action of these two sphincters ensures normal urinary function. When the bladder is full and ready for voiding, the internal sphincter relaxes under the influence of the parasympathetic nervous system, while the external sphincter voluntarily relaxes, allowing urine to pass from the bladder to the urethra. During periods of conscious control, such as when one needs to delay urination, the external sphincter contracts, effectively holding the urine within the bladder.
Overall, the bladder sphincter complex plays a vital role in maintaining control over the flow of urine and is essential for bladder emptying and continence.
Common Misspellings for BLADDER SPHINCTER
- vladder sphincter
- nladder sphincter
- hladder sphincter
- gladder sphincter
- bkadder sphincter
- bpadder sphincter
- boadder sphincter
- blzdder sphincter
- blsdder sphincter
- blwdder sphincter
- blqdder sphincter
- blasder sphincter
- blaxder sphincter
- blacder sphincter
- blafder sphincter
- blarder sphincter
- blaeder sphincter
- bladser sphincter
- bladxer sphincter
Etymology of BLADDER SPHINCTER
The word "bladder" has its origins in the Old English word "blædre" and the Old Norse word "blǫðra", both of which meant "bladder" or "a bag for holding liquid". These words are derived from the Proto-Germanic word "blaedrō" and are also related to other Germanic languages such as German "blase" and Dutch "blaas".
On the other hand, the word "sphincter" has its roots in the Ancient Greek word "sphinktēr", which means "that which binds together" or "a band". This term was borrowed into Latin as "sphincter", referring to a ring-like muscle that constricts an opening. In medical terminology, "sphincter" is often used to describe muscles that control the passage of fluids or solids through various parts of the body.
Similar spelling words for BLADDER SPHINCTER
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
