Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

What is indicated by increased SNS activity?

1. Increased digestive activity

2. Increased anxiety levels

3. Decreased heart rate

4. Improved immune function

The correct answer is: Increased anxiety levels

Increased sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity is typically associated with the body's "fight or flight" response, which prepares an individual for stressful or emergency situations. This response involves several physiological changes aimed at ensuring survival in dangerous situations. When the SNS is activated, it leads to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in improved blood flow to the muscles and brain. This response can heighten alertness and reaction times, but it may also contribute to feelings of anxiety and unease. Elevated levels of anxiety can be traced to the increased release of stress hormones such as adrenaline, which are part of the SNS activation. In contrast, options relating to increased digestive activity and improved immune function are linked to parasympathetic nervous system activity, which is responsible for more restful and restorative processes in the body. Increased SNS activity also does not correspond with decreased heart rate; in fact, the heart rate typically increases as part of the SNS response. Therefore, the association between increased SNS activity and elevated anxiety levels accurately reflects the biological changes that occur during times of stress, making it the correct indication of increased SNS activity.