Adrenal Gland

Psychoneuroimmunology

Psycho-neuro-immunology: Study of the interaction between psychological processes & the nervous & immune systems of the human body. Coined by Ader How stress & anxiety can affect one’s immune system Link between what we think & our health & ability to heal ourselves Stress & negative emotions: heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, delayed wound healing &…

Physiology of Stress

Stress: Dynamic state within the body resulting from the interaction of the body with the stressor. Stressors: Stimuli that impose strain on body homeostasis. Types of stressors: Physiological pregnancy adolescence mating ageing Physical orthostasis (upright standing position) exertion trauma infection Metabolic hypoxia hypoglycemia acidosis External/ Environmental loud noise air polution bright light threats Mental/Psychological anger…

Adrenal Steroid Hormones

Basic Anatomy of the Adrenal Glands   The adrenal glands consists of 2 regions: 1) Adrenal Cortex Outer region Encapsulates the medullary region Secretes: Steroid hormones (corticosteroids, mainly C19, C21) 2) Adrenal Medulla Inner region Composed of: modified sympathetic ganglion cells (nervous) Secrets: Epinenephine & norepinephrine (catecholamines) Adrenal Cortex It contains cells with large amounts…