Physiological Responses to Fear and Anxiety Explained by Medical Expert
A medical expert explains the physical reactions of the body to fear and anxiety, offering insights into common symptoms and their origins.
POLICY WIRE — London, UK — The human body exhibits a range of physical reactions when experiencing fear and anxiety, according to Dr. Helen Marshall, a leading medical expert. These reactions, often described in colloquial terms such as “heart in your throat” or “butterflies in your stomach,” are deeply rooted in physiological processes.
Dr. Marshall explained that these sensations are part of the body’s “fight or flight” response, a survival mechanism triggered by the perception of danger. “When we encounter a threat, our brain sends signals to the adrenal glands, which release adrenaline into the bloodstream,” she said. “This hormone prepares the body for rapid action by increasing heart rate, redirecting blood flow to essential muscles, and heightening senses.”
The increased heart rate and blood flow can lead to the sensation of a “heart in your throat,” while the redirection of blood away from the digestive system can cause “butterflies in the stomach.” Dr. Marshall noted that these responses are evolutionary adaptations that have helped humans survive threats for millennia.
“In modern life, these same physiological responses can be triggered by non-physical threats, such as public speaking or social situations,” Dr. Marshall added. “While these scenarios may not pose a physical danger, the brain can still perceive them as threats, leading to similar bodily reactions.”
Understanding these responses can help individuals manage their anxiety more effectively. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy have been shown to reduce the intensity of these physical symptoms by calming the nervous system.
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Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
