ADRENAL MEDULLA

ADRENAL MEDULLA HORMONES & THEIR FUNCTIONS

• EPINEPHRINE (ADRENALINE)

  – Increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supply. Prepares the body for "fight or flight" by increasing oxygen and glucose availability to muscles and the brain. Also dilates airways for better breathing.

• NOREPINEPHRINE (NORADRENALINE)

  – Works with epinephrine to increase blood pressure and redirect blood flow to essential organs. Causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) to maintain blood pressure under stress.

DISORDERS OF THE ADRENAL MEDULLA

1. HYPERACTIVITY OF THE ADRENAL MEDULLA

• Excessive secretion of EPINEPHRINE and NOREPINEPHRINE leads to persistent high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, anxiety, and tremors.

• Common causes: Pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor of the adrenal medulla) and prolonged stress conditions.

• Symptoms: Severe headaches, palpitations, high blood pressure, excessive sweating, and sudden panic attacks.

2. HYPOACTIVITY OF THE ADRENAL MEDULLA

• Reduced secretion of EPINEPHRINE and NOREPINEPHRINE affects the body's ability to respond to stress.

• Can lead to low blood pressure, fatigue, dizziness, and a reduced ability to cope with physical and emotional stress.

• Common causes: Damage to the adrenal glands due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or prolonged corticosteroid use.