Abstract
This chapter discusses the links between stress and the adrenal medulla, and the methodologic problems associated with measuring this activity. It reviews research documenting the effects of a number of stress-relevant variables on catecholamine (CA) secretion and also discusses the implications of this research. When confronted with danger, the ability of an organism to fight or flee is quickly readied through increased release of epinephrine (E) and overall sympathetic arousal. E, which is secreted by the adrenal medulla, and norepinephrine, a sympathetic neurotransmitter and adrenal medullary hormone, stimulate heart rate, increase blood pressure, selectively constrict blood vessels to channel blood to the appropriate organs, and otherwise support sympathetic arousal. This arousal, in turn, prepares the organism for fight or flight confrontations with stressors. As a result, the organism can meet the stressor at full strength or retreat quickly. In general, the adrenal medullary response is induced by events or situations that deviate from one's habitual environment.
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