allostatic loadPending Verification
Type: concept Aliases: allostasisallostatic overload
- Systems Analogy A delivery truck hauling heavy cargo over bumpy dirt roads daily until its shock absorbers completely fail.
- Formal Definition The cumulative physiological wear and tear on tissues and receptors resulting from chronic exposure to heightened neuroendocrine stress mediators.
Mentioned In
Scientific Sources & Literature Citations
- [1] Empirical Study McEwen BS. Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators. N Engl J Med. 1998;338(3):171-179. ↗
"Allostatic load refers to the cumulative cost to the body of allostasis, with allostatic load turning into allostatic overload in extreme situations."