preview

Introduction Of The Endocrine System

Good Essays

Harmeen Jhutti
Hyperthyroidism
Introduction
The endocrine system is the collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things. It is made up of the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries (in females) and testicles (in males). Although the hormones circulate throughout the body, each type of hormone is targeted toward certain organs and tissues. The endocrine system gets some help from organs such as the kidney, liver, heart and gonads, which have secondary endocrine functions.( Kim Ann Zimmermann, Live Science)
Thyroid gland
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck and wrapped around the lateral sides of the trachea. The thyroid gland produces 3 major hormones:
• Calcitonin
• Triiodothyronine (T3)
• Thyroxine (T4)
Calcitonin is released when calcium ion levels in the blood rise above a certain set point. It functions to reduce the concentration of calcium ions in the blood by aiding the absorption of calcium into the matrix of bones. The hormones T3 and T4 work together to regulate the body’s metabolic rate. Increased levels of T3 and T4 lead to increased cellular activity and energy usage in the body.( Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor)
The levels of hormones in the body can be regulated by several factors. The nervous system can control hormone levels

Get Access