What is an immediate physiological response to stress?

An immediate physiological response to stress involves redirecting blood flow to muscles. This response is part of the body's fight-or-flight mechanism, which prepares an individual to either confront or flee from a threat. When stressed, the body prioritizes blood flow to the muscles to enhance physical performance and readiness for action. This is achieved through the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, which cause the blood vessels in the muscles to dilate, ensuring that these areas receive more oxygen and nutrients for quick energy.

In contrast, the other options represent outcomes that do not typically manifest in the immediate aftermath of stress. For example, decreasing heart rate is contrary to the body's acute stress response, where heart rate usually increases to pump more blood to vital organs and muscles. Enhanced immune function and improving digestion are also not immediate responses; instead, stress generally suppresses immune function and diverts energy away from digestive processes, as survival is prioritized over these functions during a stressful event.