Explain the physiological response to an anticipated stressor

Answer 1

The physiological response stems from the stimulation of the hypothalamus from an imagined or real threat. The hypothalamus activates the sympathetic nervous system to increase heart rate and blood pressure in order to deliver extra nutrients to muscles and the brain. Also, blood sugar and lipids rise to meet the anticipated increase in needs for energy, while breathing accelerates to supply extra oxygen for energy metabolism. Blood supply is diverted from the skin to large muscle groups. The release of stress hormones from the adrenal glands prepares the body to be on a heightened alert to make a quick response by shutting down tissue repair, digestion, reproduction, growth, and immune and inflammatory responses. The body prepares for fight or flight. The observable symptoms can include sweaty palms, rapid breathing, dilated pupils, dry mouth, nervous or shaky speech, crying, and a feeling of butterflies in the stomach, or heart in the throat.