How do adrenaline rushes affect us?

When adrenaline rushes occur, their effects appear with great intensity. These effects are usually unpleasant for those who suffer from them and are similar to those of a panic attack.

Adrenaline rushes happen when the adrenal glands secrete an excessive amount of adrenaline in the body. These discharges usually happen in response to a spike of great amounts of stress or anxiety.

Adrenaline is a hormonal substance from the group of sympathomimetic amines (which stimulate the sympathetic nervous system).. More specifically, adrenaline is a catecholamine. It is synthesized in the adrenal gland and when released into the blood it exerts its effect on practically the entire body.

Its synthesis and release are not controlled by the will. The organism does it autonomously. However, there are specific situations and stimuli that cause a sudden release. This is what we call “adrenaline rushes.” When adrenaline rushes occur, their effects appear with great intensity. These effects are usually unpleasant for those who suffer from them. and are similar to those of a panic attack.

What effects does adrenaline have on our body?

Adrenaline is present in the brain as a element of the neurotransmitter metabolic chain. Neurotransmitters are substances that are stored in neurons and are removed from one to another to transmit stimuli. Adrenaline could itself act as a neurotransmitter and the truth is that the mechanisms by which adrenaline would be released in the nervous system are still not very well known. Nor if they would be related to peripheral liberation.

Usually, The effects of adrenaline on our body are the following:

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Increases the heart contraction speed and causes tachycardia. It has a double effect on blood vessels. It first causes paleness on the skin and then makes it red. This occurs by dilating the blood vessels. It initially slows breathing. Then, its effect is stimulating, increasing the respiratory rate.Dilates the pupils.Causes a sudden alteration of fat and carbohydrate metabolism. It increases circulating glucose in the blood, thereby increasing available energy. It relaxes the muscle fiber of the walls of the digestive tract, thereby decreases digestive activity.

The adrenaline discharges, suddenly, are accompanied by anxiety, irritability, tension and restlessness. This effect on the central nervous system appears to be secondary to the peripheral cardiovascular effects. This is because the body’s adrenaline does not cross the blood-brain barrier. That is, it does not reach the brain.

Adrenaline rushes do not occur at random

Adrenaline discharges occur in situations of tension and fear that either occur suddenly or, as in the case of stress, are continuous in nature.. The basic phenomenon is the excitation of the sympathetic system, with an excessive release of adrenaline, which puts the body in an emergency situation called “fight or flight.”

Along with the adrenaline, The adrenal gland also releases corticosteroids and other catecholamines, such as norepinephrine.. All of this sets in motion the body’s defensive and reserve system. In this way, it prepares you for any eventuality.

Thus raises blood pressure, decreases digestive activity and increases sweating and muscle tone. Initially, it is useful to control movements; but, if it exceeds a certain limit, it can disrupt coordination.

Adrenaline rushes are not dangerous

Adrenaline discharges do not represent a serious or abnormal situation, although they can scare those who suffer from them. In the long run, if it is perpetuated, it does exert harmful effects, weakening the body and keeping it in a state of constant fatigue.

If you are prone to suffering from them, by using relaxation techniques or changes in your lifestyle you may be able to reduce the frequency and intensity of adrenaline rushes. Physiological deactivation techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or progressive muscle relaxation training, usually give very good results.