Adrenal Gland Description
The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system, the system in body that is in charge of the production, release and regulation of hormones. The hormones released by the adrenal glands are essential for the development of sexual characteristics, metabolism and the proper functioning of the immune system.
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Aspects
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There is one adrenal gland, approximately 3 inches in size, located on the top of each of the kidneys. Each gland is made up of two parts: the outer portion of the gland, called the adrenal cortex, and the inner portion of the gland, known as the adrenal medulla. The adrenal glands are crucial to the function of the endocrine system as a whole since they release hormones responsible for stimulating the production of essential hormones in other endocrine glands. However, the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla produce different hormones with separate functions.
Adrenal Cortex
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The adrenal cortex releases three main types of hormones: androgens, aldosterone and corticosteroids. Together, these hormones regulate metabolism and stimulate the development of certain gender characteristics. Hydrocortisone and corticosterone are among the corticosteroids released by the adrenal cortex, and they work as anti-inflammatory agents, as regulators of sodium in the blood and control the body's rate of using nutrients in food.
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Adrenal Medulla
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The adrenal medulla produces two hormones--epinephrine and norepinephrine--that come into play during times of stress. These are the two hormones responsible for the "flight or fight" response, and together, they work to increase the heart rate and blood pressure and to increase the flow of blood to the brain and muscles when an individual experiences emotional or physical stress.
Adrenal Gland Disorders
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When the adrenal glands function abnormally, a number of serious health conditions can result. The most common of these are adrenal gland tumors, Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease. Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an overproduction of corticosteroid hormones by the adrenal cortex. Addison's disease is characterized by a severe underproduction of corticosteroids, particularly hydrocortisone.
Causes of Adrenal Disorders
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There are two main causes of adrenal gland disorders: pituitary tumors and autoimmune disease. Since the pituitary gland is responsible for stimulating the adrenal gland to produce and release its hormones, a tumor in the pituitary can often cause the adrenal glands to become overstimulated and produce far too much of a particular hormone. Conversely, the adrenal glands in individuals with autoimmune disorder are attacked and gradually destroyed by the body's own immune response.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit nursinglink.com
