Endocrine
The endocrine system is a messenger system in an organism comprising feedback loops of hormones that are released by internal glands directly into the circulatory system and that target and regulate distant organs. In vertebrates, the hypothalamus is the neural control center for all endocrine systems
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to control and coordinate your body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and mood. The following are integral parts of the endocrine system: Hypothalamus.
Many glands make up the endocrine system.
The Hypothalamus, Pituitary Gland, and Pineal Gland are in your brain.
The Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands are in your neck.
The Thymus is between your lungs.
The Adrenals are on top of your kidneys, and the Pancreas is behind your stomach.
What does the endocrine system do?
Hormones are secreted by the glands of the endocrine system, traveling through the bloodstream to various organs and tissues in the body. The hormones then tell these organs and tissues what to do or how to function.
Some examples of bodily functions that are controlled by the endocrine system include:
- Metabolism
- Growth and Development
- Sexual Function and Reproduction
- Heart Rate
- Blood Pressure
- Appetite
- Sleeping and Waking Cycles
- Body Temperature
Conditions that can affect the endocrine system
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Cushing Syndrome
- Addison’s Disease
- Acromegaly
- Diabetes
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Hypogonadism
- Osteoporosis