The reflex which controls the heartbeat automatically.
Reflex control of the heart rate. Sensory fibers in the walls of the heart are stimulated when the heart rate increases above normal. Impulses are sent to the cardiac center in the brain, which stimulates the vagus nerve and leads to a reflex slowing of the heart rate.
An involuntary response consisting of a change in cardiac rate. Stimulation of sensory nerve endings in the wall of the carotid sinus by increased arterial blood pressure reflexively slows the heart (Marey’s law). Stimulation of vagus fibers in the right side of the heart by increased venous return reflexively increases the heart rate (Bainbridge’s reflex).