The Adrenal Glands

About the Adrenal Glands

The adrenals glands are a pair of ductless glands that make steroidal hormones. These glands are located above the kidneys. They are made up of an adrenal cortex and an adrenal medulla. An adrenal cortex is the outer part of the adrenal gland that makes steroid hormones. An adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal gland

Adrenal Gland Hormones

• Aldosterone helps regulate the salt and water balance by retaining salt and water in the kidneys and excreting potassium. It is made by the adrenal cortex.
• Cortisol is a steroid hormone that has wide-spread effects throughout the body while having anti-inflammatory actions. It maintains the  blood sugar level and muscle strength. It also helps control the salt and water balance.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) effects the bone, one’s mood, and the immune system.
• Epinephrine is made in response to stress, anger, and/or fear. It increases the heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac output, and carbohydrate metabolism. It is made by the adrenal medulla.
• Nonorepinephrine increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar level. It is a hormone and neurotransmitter made by the adrenal medulla and nerve endings of sympathic nervous system to cause vasoconstruction.