Endocrine System Flashcards

The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs in the human body that regulates various bodily functions through the production and secretion of hormones.

Hormones act as chemical messengers that influence processes like metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood regulation.

The main glands include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, and reproductive glands.

The pituitary gland, often called the 'master gland,' regulates various hormones that control many bodily functions.

The anterior pituitary produces hormones such as growth hormone (GH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and prolactin.

The thyroid gland regulates the body's metabolism by producing hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Common disorders include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer.

PTH regulates calcium levels in the blood by increasing calcium release from bones and absorption in the intestines.

Adrenal glands produce hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and aldosterone.

Cortisol helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure, and is often referred to as the 'stress hormone.'

Addison's disease is a disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone.

Symptoms include weight gain, high blood pressure, skin changes, and muscle weakness due to prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels.

The pancreas produces insulin, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels.

Reproductive glands produce hormones such as testosterone in males and estrogen and progesterone in females.

The endocrine system maintains homeostasis by regulating internal conditions through hormone signaling in response to external changes.

The nervous system works closely with the endocrine system to maintain homeostasis and ensure proper body functioning.

Synaptic plasticity is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, which is essential for learning and memory.

Cortisol enhances memory encoding during stress but chronic high levels can impair memory function.

Aldosterone helps control blood pressure by managing sodium and potassium balance in the blood.

The hippocampus is critical for memory formation and is sensitive to cortisol levels.

Factors include sleep quality, diet, physical activity, stress management, and social connections.

Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which may impair cognitive function and memory.

Adrenaline is involved in the 'fight or flight' response, while aldosterone regulates blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

High cortisol levels can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system.

Regular monitoring is essential to manage conditions like Addison's disease and Cushing's syndrome effectively.