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Sympathetic System Activation

Meaning

Sympathetic System Activation is the rapid, involuntary mobilization of the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system, commonly known as the “fight-or-flight” response, in reaction to a perceived stressor. This activation is a primal, energy-intensive state characterized by the release of catecholamines, resulting in an increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and redirection of blood flow away from non-essential functions like digestion. While acutely protective, chronic or excessive activation of this system contributes significantly to allostatic load and hormonal exhaustion.