This summary provides an overview of how catecholamines and cortisol help the body fight stress:
1. Catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) and cortisol are major players in the stress response, helping the body deal with stress.
2. Both catecholamines and cortisol increase blood glucose levels through gluconeogenesis and preventing glucose uptake by cells.
3. They also increase cardiac output and blood pressure by enhancing heart contractility and rate, and vasoconstriction.
4. These hormonal responses help mobilize energy stores and prepare the body for fighting or fleeing from stressors.