Although small, the adrenal glands have such a large function, namely producing various types of hormones. These hormones control various body functions, including organ systems and metabolism. If its function is disturbed, it will have a big impact on the body.
Humans have two adrenal glands located above the kidneys and about half the size of a thumb. This gland is part of the endocrine system, which is a gland that functions as a hormone producer.
Adrenal Gland Function
The adrenal glands consist of two main parts, namely the adrenal cortex (outer part) and adrenal medulla (inner part). Each part has its own function. Here is the explanation:
Adrenal cortex
The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing three types of hormones, namely:
- Aldosterone, a hormone that regulates electrolytes in the body and blood pressure
- Cortisol, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels and metabolism
- Gonadocorticoids, hormones that regulate sex hormones, namely estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
If the adrenal cortex stops functioning, metabolic processes in the body will stop and trigger various diseases.
Adrenal Medulla
The adrenal medulla plays a role in producing the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline when stressed. Both of these hormones have a similar function, namely increasing blood sugar levels, heart rate, and heart contractions.
Adrenaline in synthetic form is used medically to treat anaphylactic or severe allergic reactions that can lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly.
Meanwhile, the hormone noradrenaline is used clinically to treat septic shock, which is a severe infection that can cause organ failure. This is because noradrenaline can make blood vessels narrow, then trigger an increase in blood pressure.
Adrenal gland disorders can be caused by various diseases, such as autoimmune disorders, infections, tumors, and bleeding. If the production of the adrenal glands is impaired, the body will be more susceptible to disease.
Some Adrenal Gland Diseases
There are several diseases that can affect the function of the adrenal glands, including:
1. Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome occurs when the body has too much cortisol. This syndrome is generally experienced by women aged 25-40 years.
Patients with Cushing's syndrome usually experience symptoms such as weight gain, facial swelling and redness, acne, muscle weakness, and increased blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
When it strikes children, Cushing's syndrome can cause obesity and stunted growth.
2. Addison's disease
Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged, resulting in a lack of the hormone cortisol. This condition can be experienced by anyone, especially women aged 30-50 years.
Addison's disease can cause symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, drastic weight loss, muscle weakness, frequent thirst, dizziness, black lips or gums, and even fainting.
3. Pheochromocytoma
Pheochromocytoma characterized by the presence of benign tumors that develop in the adrenal glands. This condition usually affects one or both of the adrenal glands.
Disease pheochromocytoma It can be experienced by anyone, but is most common in the 20-50 year age group. Symptoms of this disease include headaches, tremors, shortness of breath, excessive sweating, and high blood pressure.
4. Congenital adrenal hypoplasia
Congenital adrenal hypoplasia is an inherited disease that causes the adrenal glands to not produce enough hormones. This disease is more common in men and can be detected since infancy or childhood.
Sufferers will experience symptoms in the form of vomiting, dehydration, low blood sugar, shock, and abnormalities in the sexual organs.
In order to maintain the health of the adrenal glands, you are encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating vegetables and fruits, limiting sugar and caffeine consumption, reducing stress, and exercising regularly..
The role of the adrenal glands is very large for the body, so its health must always be considered. If you have complaints related to adrenal gland disorders as mentioned above, immediately consult a doctor to get the right examination and treatment.