The Endocrine System
Functions
The Endocrine System controls and regulates the body with hormones. The hormones are produced and released by the glands, and the glands are controlled by the Nervous System. The glands release hormones into the bloodstream to transport them to organs and tissues in the body. The hormones are chemicals that control body functions like sexual development and growth. By regulating the functions of the body, the Endocrine System keeps balance with things such as metabolism, reproduction, heart rate, and digestion.
The Main Parts
The Endocrine System consists of glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, thymus, adrenal, and parathyroid glands that all have a role in controlling and regulating the functions of the body.
Working With Other Body Systems
The body systems of different functions work together in order to keep the body alive and well. Two of the many body systems that the Endocrine System works with are the Nervous and Reproductive System. The Nervous System works with the Endocrine by sending nerves to the glands, telling them when to release hormones into the bloodstream. The Endocrine System works with the Reproductive System by sending hormones to tell the genitals when to release the gamete.
Medical Conditions
One of the many medical conditions found in the Endocrine System is Diabetes, where there is a lack of insulin causing the body to not properly process glucose.
Another medical disorder is Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs and can cause many of the body's functions to slow or shut down completely.
Another medical disorder is Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs and can cause many of the body's functions to slow or shut down completely.
Fun Facts
Melatonin, a hormone created in the pineal gland, regulates our sleep.
There are only 30 hormones in our body.
The term hormone is only a century old, being named in the 1900's.
There are only 30 hormones in our body.
The term hormone is only a century old, being named in the 1900's.