Final answer:
Under prolonged stress, the endocrine system releases stress hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine to help the body cope. These hormones initiate the fight or flight response, increasing heart rate and energy metabolism. The endocrine system also regulates metabolism, growth, and electrolyte balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When your body has been under a lot of stress for a prolonged period, the endocrine system responds by performing several actions to help the body cope. One of the critical responses is the release of stress hormones, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine from the adrenal glands. These hormones help the body to manage the stress response by increasing the heart rate, enhancing the metabolism of glucose to provide quick energy, and preparing the body to face the stressful situation (fight or flight response).
While the immediate response to stress is the secretion of stress hormones, the endocrine system is also involved in various other essential functions such as regulating the body's metabolism, controlling growth and development, and maintaining the body's water and electrolyte balance. The interplay between the nervous system and the endocrine system ensures that hormones are released at appropriate times to maintain homeostasis and facilitate the body's adaptation to external and internal stimuli.