Question

How does stress affect homeostasis?

Answer 1

Stress impacts homeostasis by unleashing adrenaline and cortisol through the sympathetic nervous system and HPA axis, igniting the fight-or-flight response. While critical for immediate survival, continued stress can disrupt bodily balance, impairing the immune system and other organ systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stress can significantly affect homeostasis in the body through its impact on the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. When stressed, the sympathetic nervous system releases adrenaline, which triggers the fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate and respiration. Concurrently, the HPA axis engages, with the hypothalamus releasing corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), prompting the pituitary gland to emit adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, a hormone with extensive effects on the body, including a temporary boost in energy.

This hormonal response to stress is essential for survival, preparing the body for a quick reaction via increased blood glucose levels. However, if stressors persist, these once adaptive responses can disrupt homeostasis and may lead to a weakened immune system and other health issues. The fight-or-flight response is crucial for short-term survival, but modern-day chronic stressors can lead to persistent imbalances, affecting nearly every organ system, particularly the immune system.

Answer 2

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable, internal environment within the body. Several mechanisms control homeostasis, including the nervous system and the endocrine system. Receptors sense stimuli and impulses travel to the brain or spinal cord, where a response is sent to an effector. This can be a muscle or a gland, which carries out the response. Disease can disturb homeostasis in the body. Hope it helps..