adrenal glands
a pair of endocrine glands that sit just above the kidneys and secrete hormones (epinephrine and norepinephrine) that help arouse the body in times of stress.
The adrenal glands are a pair of small, triangular-shaped glands that sit on top of the kidneys in the human body. The adrenal glands have two parts: the outer layer, also known as the adrenal cortex, and the inner layer, also known as the adrenal medulla. These two layers are responsible for producing different hormones that help regulate the body’s physiology.
The adrenal cortex produces three types of hormones: glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens. Glucocorticoids are responsible for regulating glucose metabolism, suppressing the immune system, and reducing inflammation. Mineralocorticoids are involved in the regulation of blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Androgens are male sex hormones, but they are also produced in women in smaller amounts.
The adrenal medulla produces two types of hormones: epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and norepinephrine. These hormones are responsible for the “fight or flight” response in the body. When a person experiences stress, the adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate to prepare the body to deal with a perceived threat.
Disorders of the adrenal gland include Addison’s disease, in which the adrenal cortex does not produce enough hormones, and Cushing’s syndrome, in which there is an overproduction of cortisol from the adrenal gland. If you suspect you may have an adrenal gland disorder, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.
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