What is the Endocrine system?
The system which comprises the glands that produce various hormones is called the endocrine system.
What are the Different types of glands present in the endocrine system?
Four major glands are part of the endocrine system: pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and gonads.
- Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland is located at the lower end of the hypothalamus.
It is capable of sending signals in the form of secretions to all the other glands. Thus, it controls the hormonal activities in your body.
- Thyroid Gland
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland placed at the anterior part of the trachea. It secretes the thyroid hormones T3 and T4.
Low levels of thyroid hormones can cause weight gain, while unexpected weight loss can signal that too much thyroid hormone is being produced.
- Adrenal Glands
Adrenal glands are a pair of pyramid-shaped glands located above the kidneys. Their major function is to secrete adrenaline hormone.
Adrenaline hormone is responsible for fight or flight response.
- Pancreas
The pancreas has beta cells that secrete a hormone called insulin. Insulin is responsible for controlling the sugar level in the blood.
- Gonads
The reproductive organs are also called gonads. They secrete sex hormones.
In males, they are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters like deepening of the voice, developing Adam’s apple, growing of beard and many more. Testosterone is the primary sex hormone.
In females, the sex hormones cause menstrual cycles. Oestrogen is the primary sex hormone.
The major glands of the endocrine system