The Endocrine System

Chapter 18. Lesson 1

Endocrine Glands

Ductless-or tubeless-organs or group of cells that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream

Hormones are chemical substances that are produced in glands and help regulate many of your body’s functions

Hormones produced during puberty trigger physical changes in the body.

Pituitary Gland

Regulates and controls the activities of all of the other endocrine glands

Known as the master gland

3 sections Anterior Intermediate posterior

Adrenal Glands

Help the body recover from stress and respond to emergencies

Have 2 parts Adrenal cortex

Sodium, urine, blood volume&pressure, metabolism of fat, protein & carbohydrates

Adrenal medulla Heartbeat, respiration,

blood pressure, digestive system

Problems of the Endocrine System Diabetes- disorder in

which the pancreas produces too little or no insulin resulting in high glucose levels

Symptoms include fatigues, weight loss, thirst, and frequent urination

Graves Disease Hyperthyroidism Overactive and enlarged

thyroid glands produce excessive amounts of thyroxine.

Symptoms include nervousness, weight loss, increased thirst, rapid heartbeat and intolerance for heat

Low production of thyroxine is hypothyroidism. Causes fatigue, dry skin, weight gain, constipation and sensitivity to cold

Cushing’s Disease

Overproduction of adrenal hormones

Symptoms include round face, humped upper back, thin and easily bruised skin, and fragile bones

Can occur in dogs too

Goiter

Enlargment of the thyroid gland, caused by lack of iodine in the diet.

Since we have iodized salt, goiters have become rare in the U.S.

Growth Disorders

Caused by abnormal amounts of growth hormone

With early diagnosis and proper treatment a child with a growth disorder can reach a normal height

Acromegaly & Gigantism Acromegaly is different than

gigantism, although both conditions can have a similar cause. Acromegaly occurs in adulthood, when the long bones of the legs and arms have stopped growing. Gigantism occurs in childhood. People affected by gigantism can grow to great heights. One of the best-known examples is "Andre the Giant" (Andre Rousimoff), who was 6 feet 3 inches by age 12, and reached a height of 8 feet 4 inches in adulthood. Men and women are equally affected by acromegaly.