Hydrocortisone: Commonly known as cortisol, it regulates how the body converts fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to energy. Glucocorticoids released by the adrenal cortex include: These hormones, in turn, alert the adrenal glands to produce corticosteroid hormones. When the hypothalamus produces corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH), it stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenal corticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Mineralcorticoids are mediated by signals triggered by the kidney.
The release of glucocorticoids is triggered by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. The adrenal cortex produces two main groups of corticosteroid hormones: glucocorticoids and mineralcorticoids. One of the main distinctions between them is that the hormones released by the adrenal cortex are necessary for life, while those secreted by the adrenal medulla are not. The adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla have very different functions. The adrenal medulla-the inner part of the gland-produces nonessential (that is, you don’t need them to live) hormones, such as adrenaline (which helps your body react to stress).The adrenal cortex-the outer part of the gland-produces hormones that are vital to life, such as cortisol (which helps regulate metabolism and helps your body respond to stress) and aldosterone (which helps control blood pressure).Image credit: iStockĮach adrenal gland is made up of two distinct parts: The adrenal glands are cone-shaped glands that sit atop each of your kidneys. Their name directly relates to their location ( ad-near or at renes-kidneys). The adrenal glands are two triangular-shaped organs that measure about 1.5 inches in height and 3 inches in length. In This Article: Adrenal Gland Anatomy | Adrenal Gland Hormones | Adrenal Gland Disorders | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Outlook Here is a look at the anatomy and function of these glands that sit on top of your kidneys, as well as some of the things that can go wrong with them. In fact, they release hormones that are essential for you to live. And rightly so-the two adrenal glands are arguably best known for secreting the hormone adrenaline, which rapidly prepares your body to spring into action in a stressful situation.īut the adrenal glands contribute to your health even at times when your body isn’t under extreme stress. When you think of the adrenal glands (also known as suprarenal glands), stress might come to mind.