the endocrine system Flashcards
the endocrine system..?
the endocrine system controls body functions and helps maintains homeostasis by using hormones.
what is a horomone?
a hormone is a chemical messenger made in one cell or tissue that causes a change in another cell or tissue in a different part of the body.
what is a gland?
a gland is a group of cells that make special chemicals for the body.
how do hormones work?
hormones travel through the blood stream from the endocrine gland where they are made.
the glands and tissues of an endocrine system
the pituitary gland – is the main control center of the endocrine system. it secretes hormones that affect other glands. it also stimulates growth and sexual development.
the hypothalamus – controls the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
thyroid – hormones from the thyroid control metabolism.
thymus – where some white blood cells develop and is also part of the lymphatic system.
pancreas – regulates blood sugar.
ovaries – produce and release reproductive hormones.
adrenal glands – controls the body’s fight or flight response in dangerous situations.
controlling hormones
the endocrine system keeps the body’s internal environment in homeostasis by increasing or decreasing the amount of hormones in the blood stream.
what is hormone imbalance?
occurs when an endocrine gland makes too much or not enough of a hormone.
