Stress Flashcards
Hans Seyle’s Three Biological Observations
(1) Enlargement of the adrenal cortex
(2) Shrinking of lymphatic organs – eg thymus, spleen
(3) Stomach and duodenal ulcers
Hans Seyle’s “General Adaptation System”
- Alarm Reaction
- A stage of resistance
- Stage of Exhaustion
What is the “emotional brain”?
The Lymbic System
What is the “thinking brain?”
The Prefrontal Cortex
Components of the limbic system
- Hippocampus
- Amygdala
- Hypothalamus
- Olfactory bulb
Role of Hippocampus in Limbic System
Declarative, short term memory
Role of Amygdala s in Limbic System
Only has two modes: It’s silent, or it’s PANIC.
Integrates behavioral actions involving survival, conditioned emotional responses. RAGE RESPONSE.
Role of Hypothalamus in Limbic System
Primary output for the limbic system.
• Connnected to anterior pituitary hormone output & SNS.
• Also regulates Body temp, appetite, sexual responses.
Role of Role of Olfactory Bulb in Limbic System
• Emotions are connected to smell
Role of Prefrontal Cortex
o Judgment, insight, motivation, mood, emotional response
Two components of stress system:
Sympathetic Nervous System
• Arranged for a global, rapid response to stress. Within seconds, you can mobilize entire body:
Adrenal Cortex
• Epinephrine (Adreneline): Longer term response
4 stress responses launched by the SNS
- Increased HR
- Bronchodilation of lungs
- Increased perfusion to sk muscles
- Liver: Glycogen breakdown, increased glucose levels
Hypothalamus response to stress
CRH → ACTH → Circulating cortisol
Actions of Cortisol (5)
o BP goes up
o Acts on the liver: Gluconeogenesis, blood glucose goes up
o Holds onto calcium, sodium – needed for muscle contraction
o Increased excitability of the brain
o Suppression of immune function (in order to mobilize energy elsewhere)
Classic Signs of Over-Training
o Heart rate gets way high at low intensities
o Body is reacting to low levels of stress as though they are high levels of stress
