Endocrine system

Question 1

What is the endocrine system

Answer 1

A network of ductless glands that secrete hormones in to the bloodstream
It works with the nervous system to coordinate body functions, using hormones to target organs via the bloodstream

Question 2

What are the 6 components of the endocrine system

Answer 2

1. Hypothalmus - regulates hormones and controls the pituitary gland
2. Pituitary Gland - the master gland, secretes multiple hormones for growth reproduction, metabolism
3. Thyroid Gland - produces thyroxine, controlling growth, development and metabolic rate
4. Adrenal Glands - produce adrenaline, cortisol and aldosterone - key to stress response and blood press regulation
5. Pancreas - secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar
6. Ovaries & testes - produce sex hormones

Question 3

What is a hormone?

Answer 3

Chemical messenger regulating a function in the body

Question 4

What is a target organ

Answer 4

The specific organ a hormone affects

Question 5

What is negative feedback

Answer 5

mechanism to regulate hormone levels, maintain balance

Question 6

What is insulin

Answer 6

regulates glucose uptake by cells for energy

Question 7

What is thyroxin

Answer 7

hormone that controls metabolism and growth

Question 8

What is diabetes?

Answer 8

Disorder of the endocrine system
Type 1 - insufficient or no insulin production. Treated with insulin injections
Type 2 - insufficient insulin or resistance to insulin. Treated with diet and medication

Question 9

What is hyperthyroidism?

Answer 9

Insufficient thyroxine production in the thyroid gland
Can cause weight gain, slow metabolism, cold intolerance
Treated with daily thyroxine medication

Question 10

What is goitre

Answer 10

Iodine deficiency leading to thyroid gland enlargement

Question 11

What are some examples of adrenal disorders?

Answer 11

Cortisol imbalance - stress related disorders
Adrenaline overproduction- prolonged stress responses