What is the long-term effect of stress that is mediated by cortisol secretion?

The long-term effect of stress that is mediated by cortisol secretion is best described as the chronic stress response. This is because cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone, is released in response to prolonged stress situations. When an animal experiences ongoing or chronic stress, cortisol levels remain elevated over time. This can lead to various negative health effects as the body's systems become dysregulated due to prolonged exposure to elevated stress hormones.

Cortisol affects many bodily functions, including the immune system, metabolism, and behavior. Under chronic stress, the sustained high levels of cortisol can contribute to anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and various physical health problems. Therefore, understanding the chronic stress response is essential for veterinary professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of managing stress in animals to promote overall health and well-being.

In contrast, immediate and acute stress responses refer to short-lived reactions that occur in response to a specific stressor, whereas a delayed stress response is typically not characterized by sustained changes in cortisol levels.