What physiological response occurs during the alarm phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome?

During the alarm phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome, the body experiences an immediate physiological response to stress, often referred to as the "fight-or-flight" response. This phase is characterized by a rapid release of stress hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol, which prepare the body to either confront or flee from the perceived threat.

As a result of these hormonal changes, one of the most notable physiological responses is an increase in heart rate. This acceleration helps pump more blood to vital organs and muscles, enhancing overall physical performance and alertness in the face of danger. The response is crucial for survival, equipping the body to handle immediate threats effectively.

In contrast, during this phase, digestion is typically inhibited as the body diverts energy from non-essential functions to more critical systems that are involved in immediate survival. Therefore, heart racing in response to stress accurately captures the physiological changes that occur during the alarm phase.