Stress Flashcards
What are some of the key structures involved in stress?
1) . Amygdala identifies =
- danger.
2) . Hypothalamus identifies =
- stress response.
3) . Adrenal medulla secretes =
- adrenaline.
4) . Adrenal cortex secretes =
- corticosteroids (cortisol).
Which part of the autonomic nervous system is the control of ‘fight or flight’?
Sympathetic nervous system.
What is the sympathetic nervous response to stress?
Stimulation of the adrenal medulla to secrete adrenaline/noradrenaline.
When a stressor is triggered, where does the hypothalamus send signals?
- Pituitary gland.
- Adrenal medulla (short term).
- Adrenal cortex (chronic).
What does the amygdala control in the brain?
- Emotions.
- Emotional behaviour.
- Motivation.
- Part of the limbic system.
What is the amygdala’s role in response to stress?
- Receives signal of stress.
- Sends signal to hypothalamus.
- Hypothalamus activates sympathetic nervous system.
What interaction does managing emotions and impulsive behaviours depend on?
Prefrontal cortex –> emotional centres in the amygdala.
What is the amygdala hijack?
Emotional distress, anger and impulsive behaviour take action.
- may be regretted later.
What is chronic stress also known as?
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis (HPAA).
What interaction system does the HPAA comprise of?
Feedback interactions between;
- hypothalamus.
- pituitary gland.
- adrenal cortex.
What happens when chronic stress is detected (HPAA activated)?
1) . Hypothalamus –>
2) . CRF –>
3) . Anterior pituitary gland –>
4) . ACTH –>
5) . Adrenal cortex –>
6) . Cortisol
What is the main function of cortisol?
To restore homeostasis following exposure to stress.
What kind of hormone is cortisol?
Glucocoticoid hormone
–>
- helps increase energy availability.
- increases levels of glucose and fatty acids in the blood.
Why is cortisol an anti-inflammatory?
Suppresses the immune system.
What are the metabolic effects of cortisol?
Increased levels of (in the blood) =
- glucose.
- fatty acids.
- amino acids.
