Flight-or-Fight ResponseThe flight-or-fight response is a finely tuned, automatic response system for coping with fear, danger, or threat. It is regulated by the Sympathetic Nervous Division of the Autonomic Nervous System. When the Flight-or-Fight response is activated the endocrine system releases the stress hormones cortisol and the catecholamines, adrenalin and nor-adrenalin. CortisolSuppress digestion and reproduction, increases glucose utilization, and, interestingly, improves learning and memory.CatecholaminesThe catecholamines, epinephrine and nor-epinephrine, increases glucose utilization, increases cardiovascular tone, and suppresses digestion.Body ChangesWhen the flight-or-fight response is activated, here are a few of the body changes that take place:Cardiovascular System
OpioidsOpiod output increases. These include the neuropeptides, endorphins, enkephalins, which increase analgesia. That is they decrease sensitivity to pain.Muscular systemThere are changes in muscle tone and strength, especially the arms and legs.AlertnessAlertness increases.Immune SystemThe immune system is suppressed. It takes a lot of energy for the body to maintain the highly complex immune system. So it temporarily turns it down.Metabolic RateIncreased metabolic rate for energy production.Kidneys (Urinary System)Urine output is decreased.
The prolonged activation of the flight-or-fight response leads to
stress with its many negative consequences. |
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