The Endocrine System Flashcards
What does the endocrine system do?
Works along side the NS to control vital functions in the body
Is it faster or slower than the NS?
It acts slower but its affects are widespread and powerful
What do glands in the body such as the thyroid gland do?
Produce hormones that are then secreted into the bloodstream and affect any cell in the body
What do most hormones do?
Affect cells in several organs throughout the entire body e.g. The fibroid gland produces the hormone thyroxine
What is the main gland of the endocrine system (where is it and what does it do)?
The pituitary gland - located in the brain and is often called the ‘master gland’ because it controls the release of hormones from the glands in the body
Which systems often work in parallel, particularly during stressful situations?
The endocrine system and the autonomic nervous system
What happens when a stressor is perceived?
The ENS changes from its normal resting state ([parasympathetic state) to the physiological arousal sympathetic state.
What are the second and third things that happen in a stressful situation?
The pituitary gland releases ETCH - this has an affect of the adrenal gland causing them to release adrenalin into the bloodstream
What does adrenalin trigger?
Physiological changes in the body which creates the physiological arousal necessary for the fight or flight response
What are some of the physiological changes associated with the sympathetic response?
Increased heartrate, increased breathing rate, dilative pupils, inhibits digestion and inhibits saliva production
What do these physiological changes explain?
Why stress, panic or excitement is often experienced as a sick feeling
What happens once the threat has passed?
The parasympathetic nervous system returns the body to its resting state
What does the parasympathetic branch of the EMS do?
Works in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, its actions are antagonistic to the sympathetic system
What does the parasympathetic system act as?
Acts as a prick and reduces the activity of the body that were increased by the actions of the sympathetic branch- referred to as the rest and digest response
