Describe the three stages of the general adaptation syndrome.

What will be an ideal response?

The three stages of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS) are the alarm stage, the resistance stage, and the exhaustion stage. The first stage is the alarm stage. It is a temporary state of shock during which resistance to illness and stress falls below normal limits. In trying to cope with the initial effects of stress, the body releases hormones that, in a short time, adversely affect the functioning of the immune system, the body's network of natural defenses. During this time the individual is prone to infections from illness and injury. In the resistance stage of Selye's general adaptation syndrome, glands throughout the body manufacture different hormones that protect the individual. Endocrine and sympathetic nervous system activity are not as high as in the alarm stage, although they still are elevated. During the resistance stage, the body's immune system can fight off infection with remarkable efficiency. Similarly, hormones that reduce the inflammation normally associated with injury circulate at high levels. If the body's all-out effort to combat stress fails and the stress persists, the individual moves into the exhaustion stage. At this point, wear and tear takes its toll-the person might collapse in exhaustion, and vulnerability to disease increases. Serious, possibly irreversible damage to the body-such as a heart attack or even death-may occur.