What are stress hormones also referred to as?

Stress hormones are commonly referred to as catecholamines, which include hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine. These hormones are released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, triggering the body’s fight-or-flight response. This response prepares the body for immediate physical action by increasing heart rate, blood flow to muscles, and energy availability, which are vital during stressful situations.

The term "catecholamines" encompasses a broader group of hormones beyond just adrenaline, which is why identifying them correctly as stress hormones is essential to understanding physiological responses to stress. Furthermore, while adrenaline is a crucial component of the body's response to stress, it represents only one aspect of catecholamines, reinforcing the importance of this broader classification. This understanding helps in comprehending how stress affects various body systems and the implications for exercise and physical health.