Final answer:
The body's response to chronic stress involves prolonged activation of the HPA axis, leading to sustained cortisol levels and potential adverse health outcomes, unlike the acute stress response which is more immediate and transient.
Step-by-step explanation:
One physiological difference in the body's response to chronic stress, as compared to acute stress, is the prolonged activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Acute stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system and the fight-or-flight response, resulting in the release of adrenaline that primes the body for immediate action.
However, in chronic stress, the HPA axis remains active for an extended period, leading to sustained levels of cortisol in the bloodstream. This long-term secretion of cortisol is linked to a variety of health issues, such as weakened immune system, depression, fatigue, and increased risk of heart disease.