Endocrine system Flashcards
What is endocrine system
System made of glands that makes hormones. It influences almost all cells,organs and functions of our body
What are hormones
Body’s chemical messengers
What do hormones do
Through blood they carry info and instructions from one set of cells to another
What does the endocrine system help control?
- mood
- growth and development
- way our organs work
- metabolism
- reproduction
What affects hormone levels
- stress
- infection
- minerals in blood
- changes in the balance of fluids
Pituitary Gland
Gland in the brain. It’s a Growth Hormone that causes bones and muscles to grow. If there is a malfunction, there can be growth restriction
Thyroid Gland
Neck - in front of the pharynx (or throat). It’s hormone is called Thyroxin. It increases the rate of metabolism in the cells of the body. Malfunction can cause weight gain or weight loss
Adrenal Gland
Kidneys - below the back ribs. Major hormone is Adrenaline.This causes the heart rate and breathing to increase. Malfunction can lead to prolonged stress causing high blood pressure
Pancreas
Located below the stomach in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen. Major hormone is Insulin. It carries glucose into the cells from the bloodstream. Malfunction can lead to Diabetes
Testes
Found in Male scrotum. Major hormone is Testosterone. It causes masculine characteristics and the production of sperm. Malfunction can lead to Infertility
Ovaries
Found in female pelvis (low abdomen). Major hormone Estrogen/Progesterone. It causes female characteristics and helps regulate the menstrual cycle/Prepares the uterine lining for an embryo, and causes ovulation
Infertility if malfunctioning
Parathyroid glands
Secrete a hormone that maintains the calcium level in the blood. Found in throat
Pineal body
Secretes hormone melatonin. Helps control cycle of sleeping and waking up.
Hypothalamus
Produces a number of different hormones that influence various other endocrine glands. Found in brain
