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Neural Sympathetic Outflow

Meaning

Neural sympathetic outflow refers to the efferent nerve traffic originating from the central nervous system that stimulates the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. This outflow represents the body’s primary mechanism for initiating the “fight-or-flight” response, preparing the body for action by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and diverting blood flow. Sustained or excessive sympathetic outflow, often a consequence of chronic stress, is a key driver of allostatic load and contributes to cardiometabolic dysfunction. Clinical evaluation of this outflow is essential for understanding the body’s stress response profile.