Human Endocrine System

Hormones

A hormone is a chemical substance, created by a gland.

Hormones help us to control conditions inside our bodies. Different hormones affect different cells.

The endocrine system secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream.

The blood transports the hormone to a specific target organ where it produces an effect

Hormones acts slowly in comparison to nerves, but have a longer effect.

The pituitary gland in the brain is a master gland which secretes several hormones into the blood in response to body conditions.

Adrenaline hormone helps the body respond to stress.

Adrenaline is secreted by the aderanal gland. Adrenaline increases the heart rate.

Thyroxine is a hormone secreted by the thyroid. Thyroxine plays a crucial role in development and growth.

Follicle stimulating hormone causes maturation of an egg in the ovary.

Luteinising hormone (LH) stimulates the release of the egg.

Oestrogen hormones produced by the ovaries.

Oestrogen and progesterone are involved in maintaining the uterus lining.

Hormonal imbalance can cause many health conditions.

If the blood glucose concentration is too high, the pancreas is an organ that produces insulin. Insulin controls the blood glucose concentration.

Excess glucose to be converted into glycogen which is stored in the liver.

In Type 1 diabetes the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin and blood glucose level can rise to a fatal amount. It is treated with insulin injections

In type 2 diabetes the body cells no longer respond to insulin produced by the pancreas.