The Endocrine System

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FunctionThe body system that consists of glands

and regulates your hormones.Hormones: Chemical messengers that are

released into the bloodstream to control many of your body’s activities.

Gland: A group of cells or an organ that releases a hormone.

Pituitary GlandProduces hormones that control other

glandsProduces hormones that control bone

growth and movement of involuntary muscles.

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Adrenal GlandTwo glands over the kidneysControl water balanceAid with digestionSecrete adrenaline, which helps the body

respond quickly in an emergency.

Fight or Flight?

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PancreasProduces digestive enzymes and chemicals

that control blood sugar levelsReleases insulin, which lowers blood sugar

by helping move sugar from blood into body cells for conversion to energy.

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Parathyroid GlandsFour small glands on the thyroidControl the amounts of calcium and

phosphorus in the body

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Thyroid GlandsProduce thyroxine, which controls

metabolism.

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OvariesTwo female reproductive glandsProduce egg cellsProduce estrogen, the female sex hormone

that controls development of secondary sex characteristics in females.

TestesTwo male reproductive glandsProduce sperm cellsProduce testosterone, the male sex

hormone that controls development of secondary sex characteristics in males.

Understanding How Your Body is ChangingPuberty: A stage of growth and

development when secondary sex characteristics appear in males and females.In females, this normally begins between the

ages of 8 and 13In males, this normally begins between the

ages of 10 and 15

Secondary Sex CharacteristicsMalesIncreased height and

muscle massDeepening voiceIncreased

perspirationGrowth of facial,

underarm, and pubic hair

FemalesIncreased heightIncreased

perspirationGrowth of underarm

and pubic hairEnlargement of

breast tissueOnset of

menstruation Both males and females may experience changes in mood due to changing levels of hormones.

Diabetes mellitusThe body produces little or no insulin or

cannot use insulinSymptoms:

Weight lossLow energyExtreme thirstFrequent urination

Three types:Type 1: occurs most often among children and

adolescentsType 2: usually occurs during adulthood and is

related to obesityGestational: may occur during pregnancy

HyperthyroidismExcessive amounts of thyroxine are released into

the bodyMakes your body systems work faster than they

shouldSymptoms:

FatigueWeight lossRapid heartbeatMuscle weaknessIrritabilityNervousness

Treatments include medications, surgeries, and radiation

HypothyroidismNot enough thyroxine is released into the

bodyForces the body systems to work slower

than they shouldSymptoms:

Weight gainSluggishnessMuscle weaknessDifficulty concentratingDepression

Treatment: medication (oral thyroxine)

Tips for Endocrine HealthGet regular medical checkupsGet enough rest and sleepStay physically active every dayEat healthful meals