Endocrine System
The endocrine system is an integrated system of small organs, which
release molecules known as hormones. The endocrine system helps regulate metabolism,
growth, development, and this system also plays a major part in a personŐs
actions and reactions.
The glands of the endocrine system and the hormones
they release can influence almost every cell, organ, and function in our
bodies. Basically, the endocrine
system is in charge of body processes that happen slowly, such as cell
growth. The nervous system and the
endocrine need to work together in order the help the body function properly.
The foundation of the endocrine system is the hormones
and the glands. Hormones are the bodies chemical messengers. Hormones transfer information and
instructions from one set of cells to another. There are many different types
of hormones. Each one performs a different job. Some work in the bloodstream. A personŐs hormone levels can be influenced by many factors
such as stress, infection, and changes in the balance of fluid and minerals.
A gland is a group of cells that produce and secrete
different chemicals. A gland will select and remove materials from the blood,
process them, and secrete the product for use in the body. Some glands release
their secretions in specific areas. For instance, exocringlands, like sweat and salivary glands, release their
secreted materials in the skin or in the inside of the mouth. Endocrine
glands, release more than 20 major
hormones directly into the bloodstream where they can be transported to cells
in other parts of the body.
The
major glands that make up the human endocrine system are the hypothalamus,
pituitary, thyroid, parathyroids, adrenals, pineal body, and the reproductive
glands, which include the ovaries and testes. The pancreas is also part of this
system, even though it has been associated with the digestive system because it
will produce and secrete digestive enzymes. Although the endocrine glands are the
body's main hormone producers, some non-endocrine organs, like the brain,
heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, thymus, skin, and placenta can also produce and
secrete.
Dangers
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Diabetes
Mellitus Types 1 & 2
