The endocrine system is responsible for important functions of the body such as reproduction, growth and metabolism. It comprises of a system of glands and controls these functions with the help of hormones. Hormones consist of groups of cells and each hormone has a particular effect on the tissues and cells in the body. The endocrine system also regulates our responses to our surroundings and maintains the energy levels that are required for the body in order to perform all its functions.
Diseases of the endocrine system lead to disturbances in the complex functioning of this imperative component of the body. diabetes is one of the most common conditions that affect the endocrine system. It results when the pancreas is not able to secrete adequate insulin or when the body is unable to utilize the insulin properly. Insulin is essential for the conversion of starch and sugar into energy in the body. Diabetes must be treated promptly as it can lead to serious complications. osteoporosis is a condition that is more commonly found in women and affects the bones in the body, making them weak and delicate. Inadequate production of estrogen in women and inadequate testosterone in men are factors that could contribute to this condition. It is difficult to diagnose osteoporosis as it shows no other symptoms. Another disease of the endocrine system is growth disorders which are characterized by either an excessive production or inadequate production of the growth hormone. PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome is also a common condition of the endocrine system that affects women. Symptoms of this condition are: increase of the male hormone in the body causing hirsutism, irregular menstrual cycles and difficulty in conceiving. Individuals with PCOS are also susceptible to developing hypertension and diabetes. Imbalances of the thyroid hormone, namely hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are also frequently occurring diseases of the endocrine system.
There are a number of home remedies that can be used to treat these conditions. A very effective home remedy for diabetes is to drink the juice of bitter gourd daily. You may also boil mango leaves in water and drink it in the morning. Osteoporosis may be improved by strengthening the bones through jogging and walking. Hormonal imbalances may be corrected by consuming dandelion root or milk thistle. For thyroid disorders, it is best to avoid saturated fats and refined foods. A diet rich in vitamin A and iodine is necessary for conditions of thyroid deficiencies.
answered by G M
An integrated system of glands and organs involved in producing and regulating hormones in the bloodstream, in order to control various functions of the body is known as the Endocrine. The endocrinal system or the endocrine functions through a network of glands and organs throughout the body that helps in accomplishing the job of secreting important hormones for various functions.
The way hormones function are akin to a good messaging system. For a message to be termed efficacious it has to reach its expected destination. Similarly, particular hormones that are produced by the endocrinal system are devised to reach certain cells known as target cells. On reaching the right cell the hormone connects to a receptor spot to carry out its work.
The main glands of the endocrine system are hypothalamus, pituitary, and pineal glands which are located in the brain, thyroid and parathyroid which are located in the neck, the glands in the abdomen are adrenal and pancreas and glands located in the lower abdomen are testes or ovaries.
The Hypothalamus is the most important connection between the endocrine and nervous systems. The hormones and glands are the foundations of the endocrine system. It is the body's main systems for controlling, communicating and coordinating the body's work and acts in coordination with the nervous system, reproductive system, kidneys, liver, pancreas and fat to help in maintaining and controlling the body's energy levels, growth and development and internal balance of body systems.
The major glands produce important hormones. The pituitary gland which is also known as the "master gland" is an important gland for the proper functioning of the endocrinal system. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that helps in regulating the wake-sleep cycle. The pancreas produces two important hormones, insulin and glucagons, which makes a decision on our sugar intake. The gonads are the major source of sex hormones.
The function of the Endocrine glands is to produce and store hormones and release them when required. The bloodstream carries the right kinds of hormones to specific targets such as organs, tissues or cells, whenever the body requires these substances. In order for the body to function well, it needs glands that work accurately, a blood supply that performs well to move hormones through the body to their target points, receptor places on the target cells for the hormones to do their work, and a system for controlling the production and use of hormones. The hormones made by Endocrine glands are used inside the body, whereas the other glands make substances like saliva that reach the outside of the body.
answered by G M
They are glands that secrete their product (hormone) into the blood in a direct manner. There are 8 endocrine glands in the endocrine system and they perform similar functions. They are interrelated and perform similar influential mechanisms. The 8 endocrine glands are:
- Pineal
- Thymus
- Thyroid
- Pituitary
- Adrenal
- Pancreas
- Testis and
- Ovary.
answered by r k