Question

you’ve learned a lot about stress and coping mechanisms as a preparation for the meeting by studying the choose this, not that figure. however, you’ve just realized that you have yet to answer the question, “what might be some of the long-term consequences of prolonged stress?” select all that apply. view available hint(s)
the blood clotting system is being affected during the alarm phase by the elevated stress hormones, and, therefore, cannot function correctly. this can lead to hemorrhages and, subsequently, blood loss.
the digestive system is not getting sufficient blood flow during the alarm phase, and, therefore, cannot function correctly. this can lead to digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, or stomachache.
the immune system is being affected during the alarm phase by the elevated stress hormones. a prolonged exposure to these hormones inhibits the immune system from functioning correctly. this can lead to weakening the body’s ability to fight off germs
the cardiovascular system is not getting sufficient blood flow during the alarm phase, and, therefore, cannot function correctly. this can lead to lowered blood pressure that causes dizziness or lightheadedness and even fainting.

Explanation:

1. For the first option: The alarm phase is short - term (part of the general adaptation syndrome's initial stage), and the description here is about a short - term effect (alarm phase) rather than long - term consequences of prolonged stress. So this is incorrect.
2. For the second option: Digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, or stomachache due to insufficient blood flow in the alarm phase are short - term effects. Prolonged stress would have different long - term digestive consequences (e.g., ulcers, IBS in long - term), so this is incorrect.
3. For the third option: Prolonged exposure to stress hormones (from prolonged stress) inhibiting the immune system is a long - term consequence. Over time, a weakened immune system makes the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. So this is correct.
4. For the fourth option: Lowered blood pressure and related symptoms in the alarm phase are short - term. Prolonged stress is more associated with long - term cardiovascular issues like hypertension, heart disease, etc. So this is incorrect.

Answer:

The correct option is: The immune system is being affected during the alarm phase by the elevated stress hormones. A prolonged exposure to these hormones inhibits the immune system from functioning correctly. This can lead to weakening the body’s ability to fight off germs.