36 Questions
What is the main effect of high levels of cortisol on the hippocampus?
Damage to the hippocampal structure
What is the role of the hippocampus in the brain?
Verbal and contextual memory storage
What happens to the hippocampal neurogenesis with continued exposure to chronic stress?
It is suppressed
How does excessive cortisol affect memory?
Causes difficulties in accessing existing memories
What is the possible consequence of sustained stress on the hippocampus?
Suppression of neurogenesis
Why is the hippocampus sensitive to the effects of glucocorticoids?
It plays a role in verbal and contextual memory
Which of the following is not a manifestation of stress on the nervous system?
Heart failure
What is a common manifestation of stress on the musculoskeletal system?
Tension headache
Which system can be affected by stress resulting in symptoms like eczema and poor wound healing?
Integumentary System
What is a potential impact of stress on the immune system?
Autoimmune diseases
Which condition is not associated with the endocrine system's response to stress?
Inflammatory disease of connective tissue
What is a cardiovascular manifestation of stress?
Hypertension
Which is not an emotional symptom that people under stress may experience?
Impotence and amenorrhea
What is a potential gastrointestinal manifestation of stress?
Heartburn / GERD
What integumentary system condition may result from stress?
Psoriasis
Which symptom is not associated with the impact of stress on the respiratory system?
Addiction
What is a potential impact of stress on the genitourinary system?
Renal failure
Which emotional symptom may be manifested in individuals under stress?
Trouble thinking clearly or memory problems
What is a potential consequence of sustained stress on the hippocampus?
Suppression of neurogenesis
How does excessive cortisol affect memory?
Prevents the brain from laying down pathways for new memory
What is a potential impact of stress on the immune system?
Impaired immune function
What is a potential manifestation of stress on the respiratory system?
Exacerbated asthma symptoms
Which emotional symptom may be manifested in individuals under stress?
Increased irritability
What is a common manifestation of stress on the musculoskeletal system?
Muscle stiffness and pain
Which of the following is NOT a neuropsychological manifestation of stress?
Hypertension
What is a potential impact of stress on the cardiovascular system?
Hypertension
Which of the following is NOT a gastrointestinal manifestation of stress?
Hypertension
What is a potential musculoskeletal system symptom of stress?
Inflammatory disease of connective tissue
Which integumentary system condition may result from stress?
Psoriasis
What is a potential impact of stress on the endocrine system?
Diabetes mellitus
Which emotional symptom may be manifested in individuals under stress?
Irritability
What is a potential impact of stress on the immune system?
Immunosuppression
Which potential genitourinary system symptom may result from stress?
Irritable bladder
What is a potential respiratory manifestation of stress?
Hypersensitivity reactions (i.e. asthma)
What is a potential gastrointestinal manifestation of stress?
Heartburn / GERD
What is a potential consequence of sustained stress on the hippocampus?
Inability to concentrate
Study Notes
Cortisol's Effects on the Hippocampus
- High levels of cortisol can negatively impact the hippocampus, leading to decreased neurogenesis and impaired memory.
- The hippocampus plays a crucial role in the brain, responsible for forming and consolidating new memories.
Stress and the Nervous System
- Chronic stress can lead to decreased hippocampal neurogenesis, impaired memory, and reduced hippocampal volume.
- The hippocampus is sensitive to glucocorticoids, making it vulnerable to the negative effects of chronic stress.
Physiological Effects of Stress
- Stress can affect the musculoskeletal system, causing muscle tension, pain, and stiffness.
- The immune system can be impacted, leading to suppressed immune function and increased inflammation.
- Stress can also affect the integumentary system, leading to conditions like eczema and poor wound healing.
- Cardiovascular manifestations of stress include hypertension, tachycardia, and cardiovascular disease.
- Stress can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- The genitourinary system can be impacted, leading to sexual dysfunction, decreased fertility, and menstrual irregularities.
- Stress can also impact the respiratory system, leading to rapid breathing, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Emotional and Psychological Effects of Stress
- Emotional symptoms of stress include anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
- Stress can lead to neuropsychological manifestations such as decreased concentration, memory impairments, and decreased cognitive function.
Consequences of Chronic Stress
- Sustained stress can lead to long-term negative impacts on the hippocampus, including decreased volume and impaired function.
- Chronic stress can also lead to impaired memory, mood disorders, and decreased overall well-being.
Explore the impact of stress on the brain and the relationship between cortisol levels and hippocampal dysfunction as studied by Dr McEwen and Dr Sapolsky. Understand how sustained stress can damage the hippocampus, affecting verbal and contextual memory.
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