Facts about the Adrenal Glands

By
Mary Salazar
-

1What Are Adrenal Glands?

There are two adrenal glands in the human body. Each of these is located on top of the kidneys. They are part of the endocrine system, which is a group of glands that is responsible for releasing hormones. In spite of their small sizes, adrenal glands play many important roles in various hormone-associated functions in the body. Therefore, any problems with these organs might cause many complications to overall health. [1]

Anatomy of the Adrenal Glands

An adrenal gland consists of two main components:

– The adrenal cortex: This is the outer area of an adrenal gland. It is also the largest part with 3 separate regions: zona reticularis, zona fasciculata, and zona glomerulosa. Each of these is responsible for releasing specific hormones.

– The adrenal medulla: This part is located in the center of the adrenal gland, inside the adrenal cortex. It is responsible for releasing adrenaline and other stress hormones.

Both parts are covered by an adipose capsule, which helps protect the adrenal gland. [2]

Back

Related Articles

10 Hypothyroidism Symptoms

Ailments & Conditions
The thyroid is a small gland located on your windpipe. It is responsible for producing a type of hormone which controls the metabolism growth of the body. Hypothyroidism, or the low level of thyroid hormone, is one of the...

10 Parathyroid Disease Symptoms

Ailments & Conditions
Parathyroid is a group of four tiny glands that release a special type of hormone to keep the right balance of blood calcium. Many conditions would be triggered by disorders in these organs. Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the levels of...

10 Signs of Hormonal Imbalance Everyone Must Be Aware of

Your Health
When someone mentions hormonal imbalance, people overlook and underestimate the seriousness of the health problem. For long, hormonal imbalance has been thought to be a minor and harmless problem that gets cured on its own as time passes. However, this...

10 Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome(Hypercortisolism)

Ailments & Conditions
Cushing’s syndrome, also known as hypercortisolism, is a condition occurring when hormone cortisol levels in the body are abnormally high. There are many possible causes, such as the use of steroid medications, type 2 diabetes, bone loss, or high...

12 Signs & Symptoms of Diabetes

Ailments & Conditions
It is crucial that we eat. Foods help keep our bodies active and energetic; they are the body's fuel. But wait a minute, have you ever wondered how food helps to keep your body healthy? When you eat, a...

13 Gout Treatment Diet You Need to Know

Food & Nutrition
Gout, another aching form of arthritis, occurs when the uric acid level in the blood is high enough to cause crystals forming and building up around and in a joint. A chemical compound called purine occurs naturally in certain foods...

15 Hypothyroidism Diet Foods

Food & Nutrition
Hypothyroidism is a rare condition, which causes a lack of thyroid hormones in your body. Since these substances help to control your metabolism, repair, and growth, people with this disease might experience many health issues. It is estimated that...

6 Facts on Digestive Enzyme

Your Health
An enzyme is a form of protein existing in a body cell. It is able to trigger some chemical reactions and facilitate many body functions. Digestive enzymes are those substances that are needed for proper digestive functions. They are...