Cold shock response

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Cold Shock Response

The Cold Shock Response (pronounced: kohld shok ree-spons) is a physiological reaction that occurs in the body when it is suddenly exposed to a drastic drop in temperature, particularly in cold water.

Etymology

The term "Cold Shock Response" is derived from the English words "cold", "shock", and "response". "Cold" (from Old English cald, ceald) refers to a low temperature or the absence of heat. "Shock" (from French choc) refers to a sudden upsetting or surprising event or experience. "Response" (from Latin responsus, past participle of respondēre to respond) refers to a reaction to something.

Physiology

The Cold Shock Response is characterized by an involuntary gasp reflex, followed by hyperventilation, an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, and a decrease in mental capacity and dexterity. This response is triggered by the sudden cooling of the skin and the underlying tissues, which sends a signal to the brain to initiate these reactions.

Related Terms

  • Hypothermia: A medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature.
  • Thermoregulation: The ability of an organism to keep its body temperature within certain boundaries, even when the surrounding temperature is very different.
  • Homeostasis: The state of steady internal, physical, and chemical conditions maintained by living systems.
  • Gasp Reflex: An involuntary inhalation that occurs in response to a sudden shock or surprise.

See Also

References

  • Cold Shock Response and Acute Cold Exposure. (2018). In The Journal of Physiology.
  • Cold Shock Response in Humans. (2019). In The Journal of Clinical Investigation.

External links

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