Chronic activation of stress hormones can lead to:
Select all that apply:
Depression
Impaired cognitive function
Autoimmune disease
Overactive immune function
Cardiovascular disease
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
Choice A Reason:
Chronic stress can significantly impact mental health, leading to conditions such as depression. The persistent activation of the stress response system, particularly the release of cortisol, can alter brain function and structure, contributing to mood disorders. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to stress hormones can lead to changes in the brain that are associated with depression.
Choice B Reason:
Impaired cognitive function is another consequence of chronic stress. Elevated levels of cortisol over an extended period can damage the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory and learning. This can result in difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Chronic stress has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Choice C Reason:
Chronic stress can also affect the immune system, leading to autoimmune diseases. The continuous activation of the stress response can cause immune dysregulation, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This can result in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune disorders.
Choice D Reason:
Overactive immune function is not typically associated with chronic stress. Instead, chronic stress often leads to a weakened immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E Reason:
Cardiovascular disease is a well-documented consequence of chronic stress. The persistent release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate, and the formation of artery-clogging deposits. These changes can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Metabolic Acid Deficit (Metabolic Alkalosis)
Vomiting or continuous nasogastric suctioning leads to the loss of gastric contents, which are rich in hydrochloric acid (HCl)1. This loss results in a decrease in the body’s acid levels, leading to a condition known as metabolic alkalosis2. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH due to the loss of hydrogen ions (H+) and an increase in bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. This condition can cause symptoms such as muscle twitching, hand tremors, and light-headedness.
Choice B: Carbonic Acid Excess (Respiratory Acidosis)
Carbonic acid excess, or respiratory acidosis, occurs when there is an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH3. This condition is typically caused by respiratory issues such as hypoventilation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or severe asthma. It is not directly related to vomiting or nasogastric suctioning, which primarily affect the metabolic component of acid-base balance.
Choice C: Metabolic Acid Excess (Metabolic Acidosis)
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH due to an accumulation of metabolic acids or a loss of bicarbonate. Common causes include renal failure, diabetic ketoacidosis, and severe diarrhea. Vomiting or nasogastric suctioning, which result in the loss of gastric acid, do not lead to metabolic acidosis but rather to metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D: Carbonic Acid Deficit (Respiratory Alkalosis)
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, leading to an increase in blood pH. This condition is often caused by hyperventilation due to anxiety, fever, or high altitude. It is not related to the loss of gastric contents through vomiting or nasogastric suctioning, which primarily affect the metabolic component of acid-base balance.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Size
Muscular hypertrophy refers to the increase in the size of muscle cells12. This process typically occurs as a result of strength training, where the muscles are subjected to stress and damage, leading to the repair and growth of muscle fibers. The increase in muscle cell size enhances muscle strength and mass, making it a key goal for athletes and bodybuilders.
Choice B: Vacuoles
Vacuoles are membrane-bound organelles found in cells, primarily involved in storage and transport of substances3. While vacuoles play important roles in cellular function, they are not directly related to muscular hypertrophy. The primary change in muscular hypertrophy is the increase in muscle cell size, not the number or size of vacuoles.
Choice C: Types
Muscle cells can be categorized into different types, such as slow-twitch (Type I) and fast-twitch (Type II) fibers4. However, muscular hypertrophy does not involve a change in the types of muscle cells. Instead, it focuses on the growth and enlargement of existing muscle fibers, regardless of their type.
Choice D: Number
An increase in the number of muscle cells is referred to as hyperplasia, which is different from hypertrophy. Hyperplasia involves the formation of new muscle cells, whereas hypertrophy involves the enlargement of existing muscle cells. Current evidence suggests that hypertrophy, rather than hyperplasia, is the primary mechanism for muscle growth in response to strength training.

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