How are body systems affected by stress?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Physiological outcomes could include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, sweating, hot and cold flashes, increased blood glucose levels, and elevated stomach acid production. One way to envision the physiological impact of stress is to imagine oneself in a traumatic situation-your car is stalled on a railroad track, and you hear the whistle of an oncoming train. This is the kind of sequence that occurs: • Steroid hormones and stress hormones are released by a signal to the brain area called the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) system. Cortisol is very important in marshaling systems through the body-heart, lungs, circulation, immune system-to deal with the stalled car and oncoming danger. • The HPA releases neurotransmitters (chemical signals) called catecholamine. The catecholamine triggers an emotional response to the stressful situation-most likely fear of the danger. • During the crisis, the catecholamine suppresses parts of the brain dealing with memory, concentration, and rational thought. • Heart rate and blood pressure increase. • The digestive system shuts down. These are only a few of the physiological effects of the stress.