Autonomic Nervous System

Yes, the autonomic nervous system is responsible for promoting the release of epinephrine from the adrenal glands during times of distress. In particular, this results in the rapid release of stored glucose (glycogen) into the blood stream which leads to a cascade of increased alertness, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. These changes to homeostasis are useful for their purposes, however, the body is incapable of remaining in this state for extended periods of time. Increased heart rate, which results in a need for increased respiration to oxygenate the hardworking cells, can result in a type of heart arrhythmia known as tachycardia. This can lead to structural heart damage, vessel damage, and electrical conduction damage within
the heart's "pacemaker" known as the sinoatrial node, and eventually the heart would incapable of performing standard functions. Additionally, high blood pressure can cause heart damage similar to that of tachycardia, kidney failure due to hypertension, and an increased potential risk of having a stroke or aneurysm. This type of neural damage can provoke the onset of diseases such as dementia and impair cognitive function. Furthermore, an increased level of alertness can result in sleep deprivation which can magnify the effects of the previously discussed side effects. This can also lead to mild cognitive impairment, and after extended periods of time can result in irritability, depression, hallucinations, and even weight gain.