Which system is likely to become overactive due to chronic stress and afferent nociceptive input?

Chronic stress and afferent nociceptive input primarily lead to the overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response, which prepares the body to react to stressors. When an individual experiences ongoing stress or sustained pain signals through nociceptive pathways, the sympathetic nervous system remains in a heightened state of alertness, leading to various physiological changes such as increased heart rate, heightened blood pressure, and release of stress hormones like cortisol.

This overactive state can result in a range of consequences, including increased anxiety, muscle tension, and even mood disorders. The sympathetic nervous system's dominance can hinder recovery from stressors and contribute to various health issues, including chronic pain syndromes.

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes 'rest and digest' functions, typically acts to counterbalance the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. The cognitive cognitive system refers to processes involved in thinking and understanding rather than physiological responses to stress, and the motor nerve system is more concerned with movement and muscle function rather than stress response. Thus, in the context of chronic stress and nociceptive input, the sympathetic nervous system is accurately identified as becoming overactive.