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Endocrine Stress Response

Meaning

Endocrine Stress Response is the immediate, coordinated neuroendocrine cascade, predominantly involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, that is rapidly activated by any perceived physical, chemical, or psychological stressor to restore systemic physiological equilibrium. This crucial response is physiologically characterized by the swift secretion of powerful stress hormones, primarily cortisol and catecholamines, which efficiently mobilize energy reserves and modulate immune function. Chronic, sustained activation of this system, however, inevitably leads to allostatic overload and subsequent pervasive hormonal dysfunction.