The Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the endocrine system
A network of glands across the body that secrete chemical messages called hormones.
Give 6 examples of glands in the body
Thyroid
Pituitary gland
Adrenal galnd
Pancreas
Testes
Ovaries
Although the effects of the endocrine system is slow what is a pro about it
It has widespread and powerful effects
What does the Thyroid gland do
Produces the hormone thyroxine which increases heart rate as well as the rate of metabolism
How do the endocrine and ANS work in parallel
Parallel= similar/correseponds
- When a stressor is perceieved the first thing that happens is the hypothalamus activates the pituitary gland which triggers activity in the sympathetic branch of the ANS
- The ANS Changes from its normal resting state to the phsyiologically arouses state
What is the resting state of the ANS
Parasympathetic
What is the physiologically aroused state of the ANS
Sympathetic
How does the parasympathetic nevrous system work
It works in opposition to the sympathteic
Where is the pituitary gland located and what does it do
It is located in the brain and it is often called the master gland as it releases hormones from all over the body
What does the hypothalamus do?
The hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system in combination with the pituitary gland
What does the pancreas do and what is an example of a hormone it releases
Regulates blood sugar levels
Hormone: insulin and glycogen
What does the adrenal gland do and what is an example of a hormone it releases
Increases heart rate, blood supply to muscles when the fight or flight mechanism is activated
Hormone: Adrenaline/cortisol
What controls the pituitary gland
The Hypothalamus
What does the pituitary gland do
Produces and releases several hormones that help carry out important bodily functions,
What do the testes do
Produces testosterone which causes changes during puberty and stimulates sperm production
