Stresshormone

When stress hormones biochemical messengers are called that cause adaptive reactions of the body in particular stresses. They include the catecholamines and glucocorticoids, which are formed in the adrenal gland. The actual function of the stress hormones is the release of the energy reserves of the body in preparation for an upcoming flight or a fight - both are immediate reactions to a stressful situation.

For stress - such as heavy physical work, noise, power sports, psychological and mental stress situations ( fear of loss, fear of death, fear of failure or loss of face ) or serious illnesses - epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine are released as stress hormones. The catecholamines outweigh this for short-term stress. The glucocorticoids are distributed, however, with long-term stress. About mediation of corticotropin - releasing hormone (CRH) adrenocorticotropin (ACTH ) is released, which stimulates the synthesis and release of cortisol from the adrenal cortex.

The main factor that controls ACTH release, is probably the CRH, in addition, however, stress leads in every single shape to the release of arginine vasopressin (AVP ) and the activation of the sympathetic nerve, both of which again promote ACTH release itself.

Also, the plasma concentration of prolactin increases under load, the physiological significance is still unclear.

Similarly, β -endorphin can be a short time after the beginning of exercise in vermehrtem level detected in the blood.