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author：explore 2025-09-27 13:04:53 - browse：8

Why do we gasp, jump and go pale when we're frightened? It all comes down to a tiny, almond-shaped structure in the brain that's called the amygdala. Matthew Orr, Alex Hogan/STAT

It feels like your body reacts a million different ways when you get scared — the blood rushes out of your face, you jump, you gasp, your heart starts racing.

But what’s happening inside your body that makes you feel afraid?

It all comes down to a tiny, almond-shaped structure in the brain that’s called the amygdala.

It’s responsible for kickstarting your “startle response.” That sends out a distress signal to the hypothalamus, and from there, your brain makes the call between fight and flight.

Learn more about the science of fear in the new episode of “Boddities.”

Watch other “Boddities” episodes:

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Related: Episode 5: Why do bright lights make us see spots?

Related: Watch: Episode 4: Why do our ears pop?

Related: Watch: Episode 3: Why doesn’t your stomach digest itself?

Related: Watch: Episode 2: Why does it hurt to get water up your nose?

Related: Watch: Episode 1: Does drinking soda help settle an upset stomach?

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