[Campbell Biology P.1061] A person suddenly encounters a dangerous situation, triggering a "f... | Practice Question

A person suddenly encounters a dangerous situation, triggering a "fight-or-flight" response. Which of the following physiological changes would NOT typically occur as a direct result of this response?

  • A: Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
  • B: Increased breakdown of glycogen into glucose.
  • C: Decreased blood flow to skeletal muscles.
  • D: Increased breathing rate and dilation of bronchioles.
  • E: Decreased activity of the digestive system.

Explanation

During the 'fight-or-flight' response, mediated by epinephrine and norepinephrine, blood flow is shunted towards the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles, and away from organs like the skin, digestive organs, and kidneys. Therefore, decreased blood flow to skeletal muscles would not occur; instead, it would increase.