Final answer:
The body reacts to stress through three physiological stages known as the general adaptation syndrome which include the alarm reaction, stage of resistance, and stage of exhaustion, each progressively affecting the body's ability to handle stress.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physiological Stages Triggered by Stressors
When homeostasis is disrupted by stressors, whether physical, psychological, emotional, or environmental, the body undergoes three distinct physiological stages as identified by Hans Selye's general adaptation syndrome. These stages include:
Stage of resistance: If the stressor persists, the body enters a stage of resistance where it attempts to adapt to the stressor. The physiological responses are less intense, but the body remains on high alert.
Stage of exhaustion: Prolonged or chronic exposure to the stressor can lead to the stage of exhaustion. During this phase, the body's resources are depleted which can result in increased vulnerability to illness or disease, and this is where stress can potentially lead to serious health problems.
These stages of the general adaptation syndrome demonstrate how continued exposure to stress can affect health, potentially leading to disorders like hypertension and coronary artery disease through cumulative wear and tear on the body.