Which of the following is an effect of short-term exposure to stress?

• A. Suppressed immune system over months
• B. Long-term memory loss
• C. Increased heart rate
• D. Development of chronic illnesses

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) stress. Short-term stress triggers immediate physiological responses, while long-term stress affects the body over extended periods.
2. Step 2: Identify common physiological effects of short-term stress, such as activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.
3. Step 3: Recognize that increased heart rate is a typical immediate response to short-term stress, as the body pumps more blood to muscles and vital organs.
4. Step 4: Contrast this with effects like suppressed immune system and development of chronic illnesses, which generally result from prolonged or chronic stress exposure rather than short-term stress.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the options, increased heart rate is the correct effect associated with short-term exposure to stress.