In a stressful event, what is a significant physical effect on the body?

During a stressful event, the body activates its fight-or-flight response, which involves a series of physiological changes primarily driven by the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. One significant physical effect of this response is increased blood pressure. This increase in blood pressure helps to ensure that oxygen and nutrients are delivered efficiently to essential organs and muscles, preparing the body to react swiftly to the stressor.

The body's response to stress is designed to enhance survival in the face of perceived danger, which is why increased blood pressure during such events is considered a normal and adaptive reaction. In contrast to this, a lower heart rate would typically indicate a state of relaxation rather than stress, improved digestion is often inhibited during stress as the body prioritizes immediate survival functions, and a heightened immune response is more commonly associated with a state of rest rather than stress, as prolonged stress can actually weaken the immune system.