Why Zebras Dont Get Ulcers - 1589 Words

Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers August 6, 2009 Abstract Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers by Robert M. Sapolsky, gives a description of the inner workings of the human, and animal, stress response. He talks about what physiologically happens to people when they remain in a state of stress of a long period of time. The immune response, depression, aging and death, and sexual reproduction are just some of the topics Sapolsky discusses and how stress affects each of these. Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers I chose Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers (1994) because I was intrigued by the similarities between humans and animals in regards to their responses to acute and chronic stress. As a medical professional, I feel that I have a strong†¦show more content†¦Without insulin there to make this happen, excess glucose remains in the blood if it’s not used by the muscles. Continued stress responses over time can eventually cause the uptake of glucose into the cells to be hindered, thereby creating a diabetic condition. Sapolsky goes on to explain how stress in our lives can also lead to loss of libido and reproduction. During periods of stress, males can see a decrease in circulating testosterone due to a release of specific hormones in the brain which basically shut down the activity of the testes, which are responsible for testosterone release. On the female side, the author tells us that studies have shown how stress suppresses estrogen production, which in turn disrupts sexual behavior in women. (Sapolsky, 1994. p. 124) Another interesting part of this book, talks about the decreased immune response during times of stress. Hans Selye, one of the godfathers of stress physiology, discovered the first evidence of stress-induced immunosuppression back in the 1930s. Selye learned that the same glucocorticoids that are responsible for sympathetic response, was also a large contributor in immune system suppression. Glucocorticoids stop the formation of lymphocytes as well as inhibit the release of interleukins and interferons which make already circulating lymphocytes less responsive to infections. Sapolsky hypothesized why evolution would create this process from happening. He wanted to know whyShow MoreRelatedEssay on Stress: Causes And Effects797 Words   |  4 Pagesone’s life will be healthier and happier! Works Citied Feldman, Robert S. Understanding Stress. Watts, 1992. Pgs. 15-30 Patel, Chandra. The Complete Guide to Stress Management. Plenum, 1991. Pgs. 13-25 Sapolsky, Robert M. Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers: A Guide to Stress, Stress-Related Disease, and Coping. W.H. Freeman, 1993. Pgs. 21-54 Read MoreSymptoms And Symptoms Of Anxiety925 Words   |  4 Pagesnervous system the first thing that usually happens to me physically is that my neck and back will start to feel tense and sore. I will also have tightness in my chest, which gets so bad that I feel like I am incapable of taking a deep breath. Mentally, I have no patience for anyone and I am quick to lose my temper. My thoughts get consumed with whatever it is that is causing me distress. Immediately my mind goes straight to the worst-case scenario, which ultimately ends up exacerbating my anxiety. TheRead MoreAging And Many Other Body And Mind System2787 Words   |  12 Pagesalways anxious. Both our bodies and minds get seriously affected with this. In case of zebras, it is different. Running away from a lion is stressful for the zebras, but this very activity does not harm their bodies. Hence, they quickly and easily recover from that state. Therefore, it can be stated that though the human brain is more developed from the brains of the other mammals, it is always not a boon for the human beings. Most of the animals including zebras live in a peaceful state. Though, theyRead MoreEssay on Stress and Cardiovascular Disease1245 Words   |  5 Pages2003). Obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise all have a direct relationship with developing or worsening a preexisting case of cardiovascular disease. These things either enhance the build up of plaque in the arteries or do nothing to slow down or get rid of the problem. With this dangerous combination, it is only a matter of time before an individual develops CHD. It is important for the public to realize how stress can impact their overall health. If men and women want to live longer it isRead MoreStress in the 21st Century Essay2392 Words   |  10 Pagesproblem may develop. Research has found that psychological and psychosomatic conditions such as depression, diabetes, hair loss, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, obesity, obsessive-compulsive disorders, sexual dysfunction, tooth and gum diseases, ulcers, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, anorexia nervosa, tuberculosis, asthma, arthritis and even cancer are thought to be caused in part, if not fully, by stress. This is mainly due to the negative effect chronic stress has on the immune system11Read MoreRepressed Memories Essay3891 Words   |  16 Pagesvigilance, memory is best. As the mental state moves further on to alarm, fear, and finally terror, brain regions associated with cognition all but shut off. The way information is stored is a function of what part of the brain is on , and the way it get recalled is also a function of what part of the brain is on, says Perry. Memory formation is also influenced by the biochemistry of the stress response. The chronic severe stress that occurs with long-term abuse seems particular able to impair activity