Question

The exhaustion phase of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS) is characterized by

a) Decreased resistance to disease and infection.
b) Increasing ability to produce glucose from glycogen.
c) Increased pumping effectiveness of the heart.
d) All of the above
e) None of the above

Answer 1

The correct answer to the characteristics of the exhaustion phase in Selye's GAS is 'a) Decreased resistance to disease and infection', indicating a depletion of bodily resources and potential for serious health issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

The exhaustion phase of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS) is characterized by decreased resistance to disease and infection. This stage follows the initial alarm reaction, where the fight-or-flight response is activated, and the stage of resistance, where the body adapts to the stressor if it continues. In the exhaustion phase, prolonged stress leads to a depletion of the body's physical resources, contributing to various health problems such as depression, a suppressed immune response, severe fatigue, and potentially fatal health events like heart attacks. Therefore, the correct answer is (a) Decreased resistance to disease and infection.