Suprarenal gland

Suprarenal gland (also known as the adrenal gland) is a small, triangular-shaped gland located on top of the kidney. They are part of the body's endocrine system, and are responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body's metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and other essential functions.

Anatomy

The suprarenal gland is divided into two distinct parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The adrenal cortex is the outer part of the gland, and it produces hormones that are vital to life, such as cortisol (which helps regulate metabolism and helps your body respond to stress) and aldosterone (which helps control blood pressure). The adrenal medulla is the inner part of the gland, and it produces nonessential (that is, you don't need them to live) hormones, such as adrenaline (which helps your body react to stress).

Function

The suprarenal glands produce a variety of hormones that help regulate the body's functions. These include:

• Cortisol: This hormone helps regulate the body's metabolism, and it also helps the body respond to stress.
• Aldosterone: This hormone helps control blood pressure by maintaining the balance of salt and water in the body.
• Adrenaline: This hormone helps the body respond to stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism.

Diseases and disorders

There are several diseases and disorders that can affect the suprarenal glands. These include:

• Addison's disease: This is a disorder in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. Symptoms can include fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
• Cushing's syndrome: This is a disorder in which the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Symptoms can include weight gain, thinning skin, and high blood pressure.
• Adrenal cancer: This is a rare form of cancer that begins in the adrenal glands. Symptoms can include pain, weight loss, and changes in hormone levels.

See also

• Endocrine system
• Hormone
• Kidney

Suprarenal gland Resources
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