TABLE 1: SOME OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH THE FIGHT OR FLIGHT RESPONSE A surge of adrenaline leading to an elevation of blood-pressure and heart rate aimed at increasing cardiac output to meet the challenge and also, in case of blood loss, to maintain circulation. An increase in respiration because of an anticipated increase in energy expenditure. Mobilises glucose to sustain energy expenditure. An increase in sweating to assist with keeping the body cool, while exerting itself. Diversion of blood-flow to muscles and away from the gut with the gut's motility almost ceasing. An increase in platelet adhesiveness which means that the blood is becoming 'stickier' in order to be more able to stop bleeding. A short-term mobilisation of white-blood cells to protect the body if its defences are breached. Activation of inflammatory hormones which play a role in healing damaged tissues which includes accelerating cell replication and laying down new blood vessels.