The endocrine system Flashcards
What is the endocrine system?
A system made up of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream
What are glands?
Organs that release hormones
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers released by glands into the bloodstream
What is the pituitary gland?
The ‘master gland’ that produces hormones which tells the body what to do. It can also tell other glands to release their hormones
What is the thyroid?
The gland that produces thyroxine which regulates metabolism, heart rate and temperature
What are the adrenal glands?
The glands that produce adrenaline to prepare the body for a ‘fight or flight’ response
What does adrenaline increase?
Heart rate, glucose levels, blood pressure and blood flow to muscles
What does the pancreas do?
It produces insulin which regulates the blood glucose levels
What do the testes do?
Produce testosterone
What do the ovaries do?
Produce oestrogen
What are the differences between nerves and hormones?
Nerves act faster, act for a short time and act on a precise area. Hormones do the opposite
