The adrenal medulla secretes hormones. Mineralocorticoids as adrenal hormones. Treatment of adrenal dysfunction with glucocorticoids

June 15, 2017 Vrach

The adrenal glands are a component endocrine system human, that is, the organs responsible for the production of hormones. This is a steam gland, without which life is impossible. More than 40 hormones synthesized here regulate a huge number of critical processes in the body. Adrenal hormones can be produced incorrectly, and then a person develops a number of serious diseases.

Adrenal glands and their structure

The adrenal glands are located in the retroperitoneal space, located just above the kidneys. They are small in size (up to 5 cm in length, 1 cm in thickness), and weigh only 7-10 g. The shape of the glands is not the same - the left one is in the form of a crescent, the right one resembles a pyramid. From above, the adrenal glands are surrounded by a fibrous capsule, on which the fatty layer is located. The capsule of the glands is connected to the shell of the kidneys.

In the structure of the organs, the outer cortical substance (approximately 80% of the volume of the adrenal glands) and the inner medulla are isolated. The cortex is divided into 3 zones:

Glomerular, or thin superficial.
Beam, or intermediate layer.
Mesh, or the inner layer adjacent to the medulla.

Both cortical and brain tissue are responsible for the production of various hormones. Each adrenal gland has a deep groove (gate) through which blood and lymphatic vessels and extend to all layers of the glands.

cortical hormones

The hormones of the adrenal cortex are a huge group of special substances that are produced outer layer these glands. All of them are called corticosteroids, but in different zones cortical substance produces hormones that are different in function and effect on the body. Required for the production of corticosteroids fatty substance- cholesterol that a person receives with food.

Hormonal substances of the glomerular zone

Mineralocorticosteroids are created here. They are responsible for the following functions in the body:

regulation of water-salt metabolism;
increased tone of smooth muscles;
control of potassium, sodium and osmotic pressure;
regulation of the amount of blood in the body;
ensuring the work of the myocardium;
increased muscle endurance.

The main hormones of this group are corticosterone, aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone. Since they are responsible for the state of blood vessels and normalization blood pressure, then with an increase in the level of hormones, hypertension occurs, with a decrease - hypotension. The most active is aldosterone, the rest are considered minor.

Bundle zone of the adrenal glands

In this layer of glands, glucocorticosteroids are produced, the most important of which are cortisol, cortisone. Their functions are very diverse. One of its main functions is to control glucose levels. After the release of hormones into the blood, the amount of glycogen in the liver increases, and this increases the amount of glucose. It is processed by insulin secreted by the pancreas. If the amount of glucocorticosteroids increases, then this leads to hyperglycemia, when it decreases, hypersensitivity to insulin appears.

Other important features this group of substances:

increased muscle tone;
maintaining the work of the brain in terms of the ability to feel tastes, aromas, the ability to comprehend information;
work control immune system, lymphatic system, thymus;
participation in the breakdown of fats.

If a person has an excess of glucocorticosteroids in the body, this leads to a deterioration defensive forces body, the accumulation of fats under the skin, on internal organs and even increased inflammation. Because of them, for example, in patients with diabetes, the skin does not regenerate well. But with a lack of hormones, the consequences are also unpleasant. Water accumulates in the body, many types of metabolism are disturbed.

Substances of the mesh layer

This is where sex hormones, or androgens, are produced. They are very important for a person, and especially big influence have on the female body. In women, androgens are converted into testosterone, which the female body also needs, albeit in a small amount. In men, their growth, on the contrary, contributes to the processing into estrogens, which causes the appearance of female-type obesity.

In menopause, when the function of the ovaries slows down greatly, the work of the reticular layer of the adrenal glands allows you to receive the bulk of the sex hormones. Androgens also help muscle tissue grow, strengthen. They help maintain libido, activate hair growth in certain areas of the body, and participate in the formation of secondary sexual characteristics. The highest concentration of androgens is observed in a person aged 9-15 years.

adrenal medulla

The adrenal medulla hormones are catecholamines. Since this layer of glands is literally permeated with small blood vessels, when hormones are released into the blood, they quickly spread throughout the body. Here are the main types of substances produced here:

Adrenaline - is responsible for the activity of the heart, adapting the body to critical situations. With a long increase in the substance, myocardial growth is observed, and the muscles, on the contrary, atrophy. Lack of adrenaline leads to a drop in glucose, impaired memory and attention, hypotension, and fatigue.
Norepinephrine - constricts blood vessels, regulates pressure. Excess leads to anxiety, sleep disturbances, panic, lack - to depression.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance

With violations of the production of hormonal substances of the adrenal glands, a variety of disorders develop in the body. A person may increase arterial pressure, obesity occurs, the skin becomes thinner, the muscles become weak. Osteoporosis is very characteristic of this condition - increased bone fragility, because excess corticosteroids wash out calcium from bone tissue.

Other possible signs of hormonal disruption:

menstrual irregularities;
severe PMS in women;
inability to conceive;
diseases of the stomach - gastritis, ulcers;
nervousness, irritability;
insomnia;
erectile dysfunction in men;
baldness;
weight fluctuations;
inflammation on the skin, acne.

Diagnosis of hormonal balance in the body

A blood test from a vein to study the hormonal level is recommended in the presence of the above symptoms. Most often, an analysis is performed to study sex hormones for such indications as delayed sexual development, infertility, habitual miscarriage of a child. The main hormone is dehydroepiandrosterone (the norm for women is 810-8991 nmol / l, for men - 3591-11907 nmol / l). This wide variation in numbers is due to different concentration hormone according to age.

An analysis for the concentration of glucocorticosteroids is prescribed for menstrual disorders, osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, skin hyperpigmentation, and obesity. Be sure to refuse to take all drugs before donating blood, otherwise the analysis may give an incorrect result. Studies of the level of aldosterone and other mineralocorticosteroids are indicated for failures in blood pressure, hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex, tumors of these glands.

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How to influence the levels of hormones?

It has been established that hunger, stressful conditions and overeating lead to disruption of the adrenal glands. Since the production of corticosteroids is produced with a certain rhythm, you need to eat in accordance with this rhythm. In the morning you need to eat tightly, because it helps to enhance the production of substances. In the evening, meals should be light - this will reduce the production of hormonal substances that are not required in large volumes at night.

Physical activity also contributes to the normalization of corticosteroid levels. It is useful to play sports until 15 o'clock in the afternoon, and in the evening only light loads can be applied. In order for the adrenal glands to remain healthy, you need to eat more berries, vegetables, fruits, take vitamins and preparations of magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iodine.

In case of violations of the level of these substances, treatment with drugs is prescribed, including insulin, vitamin D and calcium, adrenal replacement hormones and their antagonists, vitamins C, group B, diuretics, antihypertensive agents. Lifelong therapy with hormonal drugs is often required, without which severe disorders develop.

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1. The concept of excitable tissues. Basic properties of excitable tissues. Irritants. Classification of irritants.
2. Features of renal blood flow. Nephron: structure, functions, characteristics of the processes of urination and urination. Primary and secondary urine. The composition of urine.
1. Modern ideas about the structure and function of cell membranes. The concept of cell membrane potential. The main provisions of the membrane theory of the occurrence of the membrane potential. Resting potential.
2. Intrapleural pressure, its value. Elasticity of lung tissue. Factors that determine the elastic recoil of the lungs. Pneumothorax.
3. Task. Are the conditions for the occurrence of "heat stroke" and heat syncope in people the same?
1. Characteristics of changes in the cell membrane potential during excitation and inhibition. Action potential, its parameters and meaning.
2. Automation of the heart muscle: concept, modern ideas about the causes, features. The degree of automation of various parts of the heart. Stannius experience.
3. Task. Determine which breathing is more effective:
1. General characteristics of nerve cells: classification, structure, functions
2. Transport of oxygen by blood. Dependence of oxygen binding by blood on its partial pressure, carbon dioxide tension, pH and blood temperature. Bohr effect.
3. Task. Explain why the cooling in water of 20° is greater than in still air of the same temperature?
1. Structure and types of nerve fibers and nerves. Basic properties of nerve fibers and nerves. Mechanisms of propagation of excitation along nerve fibers.
2. Types of blood vessels. Mechanisms of blood movement through the vessels. Features of the movement of blood through the veins. The main hemodynamic indicators of the movement of blood through the vessels.
3. Task. Before eating a large amount of meat, one subject drank a glass of water, the second - a glass of cream, the third - a glass of broth. How will this affect the digestion of meat?
1. The concept of a synapse. The structure and types of synapses. Mechanisms of synaptic transmission of excitation and inhibition. mediators. Receptors. Basic properties of synapses. The concept of epaptic transmission.
2. Characteristics of carbohydrate metabolism in the body.
3. Task. If the cell membrane were absolutely impermeable to ions, how would the value of the resting potential change?
1. General patterns of human adaptation. Evolution and forms of adaptation. adaptogenic factors.
2. Transport of carbon dioxide in the blood
2. Characteristics of the metabolism of fats in the body.
3. Task. When the nerve is treated with tetrodotoxin, pp increases, but pd does not occur. What is the reason for these differences?
1. The concept of the nerve center. Basic properties of nerve centers. Compensation of functions and plasticity of nervous processes.
2. Digestion: concept, physiological basis of hunger and satiety. Food center. The main theories explaining the state of hunger and satiety.
1. Characteristics of the basic principles of coordination in the activity of the central nervous system.
2. Conductivity of the heart muscle: concept, mechanism, features.
3. Task. A person has a delay in the outflow of bile from the gallbladder. Does it affect fat digestion?
1. Functional organization of the spinal cord. The role of spinal centers in the regulation of movements and autonomic functions.
2. Heat production and heat transfer: mechanisms and factors determining them. Compensatory changes in heat production and heat transfer.
1. Characteristics of the functions of the medulla oblongata, midbrain, diencephalon, cerebellum, their role in the motor and autonomic reactions of the body.
2. Neurohumoral mechanisms of regulation of body temperature constancy
1. The cerebral cortex as the highest department of the central nervous system, its significance, organization. Localization of functions in the cerebral cortex. Dynamic stereotype of nervous activity.
2. The main functions of the gastrointestinal tract. Basic principles of regulation of digestion processes. The main effects of nervous and humoral effects on the digestive organs according to IP Pavlov.
3. Task. When analyzing the subject's ECG, a conclusion was made about a violation of the recovery processes in the ventricular myocardium. On the basis of what changes on the ECG was such a conclusion made?
1. Functional organization and functions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The concept of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS. Their features, differences, influence on the activity of organs.
2. The concept of endocrine glands. Hormones: concept, general properties, classification by chemical structure.
3. Task. A child who learns to play the piano at first plays not only with his hands, but also "helps" himself with his head, legs and even his tongue. What is the mechanism of this phenomenon?
1. Characteristics of the visual sensory system.
2. Characteristics of protein metabolism in the body.
3. Task. The poison contained in some types of mushrooms sharply shortens the absolute reflex period of the heart. Can poisoning with these mushrooms lead to death. Why?
1. Characteristics of the motor sensory system.
3. Task. If you are:
1. The concept of auditory, pain, visceral, tactile, olfactory and gustatory sensory systems.
2. Sex hormones, functions in the body.
1. The concept of unconditioned reflexes, their classification according to various indicators. Examples of simple and complex reflexes. instincts.
2. The main stages of digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. Classification of digestion depending on the enzymes that carry it out; classification depending on the localization of the process.
3. Task. Under the influence of medicinal substances, the permeability of the membrane for sodium ions increased. How will the membrane potential change and why?
1. Types and characteristics of inhibition of conditioned reflexes.
2. The main functions of the liver. Digestive function of the liver. The role of bile in the process of digestion. Bile formation and bile secretion.
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2. The concept and characteristics of abdominal and parietal digestion. absorption mechanisms.
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1. Types of higher nervous activity and their characteristics.
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2. Characteristics of the nervous, reflex and humoral regulation of cardiac activity.
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2. Nervous and humoral regulation of kidney activity.
1. Basic properties of skeletal muscle. Single reduction. Summation of contractions and tetanus. The concept of optimum and pessimum. Parabiosis and its phases.
2. Functions of the pituitary gland. Hormones of the anterior and posterior pituitary, their effects.
2. Excretory processes: significance, excretory organs. Basic functions of the kidneys.
3. Task. Under the influence of a chemical factor in the cell membrane, the number of potassium channels increased, which can be activated upon excitation. How will this affect the action potential and why?
1. The concept of fatigue. Physiological manifestations and phases of development of fatigue. Basic physiological and biochemical changes in the body during fatigue. The concept of "active" recreation.
2. The concept of homoiothermic and poikilothermic organisms. The meaning and mechanisms of maintaining a constant body temperature. The concept of the temperature core and shell of the body.
1. Comparative characteristics of the features of smooth, cardiac and skeletal muscles. mechanism of muscle contraction.
1. The concept of "blood system". The main functions and composition of blood. Physical and chemical properties of blood. Buffer systems of the blood. Blood plasma and its composition. Regulation of hematopoiesis.
2. The value of the thyroid gland, its hormones. Hyper- and hypofunction. Parathyroid gland, its role.
3. Task. Which mechanism dominates as an energy supplier:
1. Erythrocytes: structure, composition, functions, methods of determination. Hemoglobin: structure, functions, methods of determination.
2. Nervous and humoral regulation of respiration. The concept of the respiratory center. Respiratory center automation. Reflex influences from lung mechanoreceptors, their significance.
3. Task. Explain why the excitation of the m-cholinergic receptors of the heart leads to the inhibition of the activity of this organ, and the excitation of the same receptors in the smooth muscles is accompanied by its spasm?
1. Leukocytes: types, structure, functions, method of determination, counting. Leukocyte formula.
3. Task. What will be the result of three studies of the ratio of muscle fibers of type I and II in the 4-headed thigh muscle, in a teenager who was examined at 10, 13 and 16 years?
1. The doctrine of blood groups. Blood groups and Rh - factor, methods for their determination. Blood transfusion.
2. The main stages of metabolism in the body. regulation of metabolism. The role of the liver in the metabolism of proteins, fats, carbohydrates.
3. Task. During bloodletting, a drop in hell is observed, which is then restored to its original value. What is the mechanism?
1. Blood coagulation: mechanism, significance of the process. Anticoagulant system, fibrinolysis.
2. Heart: structure, phases of the cardiac cycle. The main indicators of the activity of the heart.
1. Excitability of the heart muscle: concept, mechanisms. Changes in excitability in different periods of the cardiac cycle. Extrasystole.
2. Physiology of the adrenal glands. Hormones of the adrenal cortex, their functions. Hormones of the adrenal medulla, their role in the body.
2. Physiology of the adrenal glands. Hormones of the adrenal cortex, their functions. Hormones of the adrenal medulla, their role in the body.
The adrenal glands are paired organs of internal secretion, located above the upper poles of the kidneys.
The adrenal glands are composed of medulla and cortex, the hormones of which differ in their action. The cortex has glomerular, fascicular and reticular zones.
The adrenal medulla. Adrenal medulla hormone adrenalin, formed from its predecessor norepinephrine. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are combined under the name catecholamines, or sympathomimetic amines, because. their action on organs and tissues is similar to that of the sympathetic nerves.
Adrenaline affects many bodily functions:
Increased glycogenolysis in muscles;
It causes an increase and increase in cardiac activity, improves the conduction of excitation in the heart;
Narrows the arterioles of the skin, abdominal organs and non-working muscles;
Weakens the contractions of the stomach and small intestine;
Relaxes the bronchial muscles, as a result of which the lumen of the bronchi and bronchioles increases;
Causes contraction of the radial muscle of the iris, which leads to the expansion of the pupils;
Increases the sensitivity of receptors, in particular, the retina, auditory and vestibular apparatus.
Consequently, adrenaline causes an emergency restructuring of functions aimed at improving the interaction of the body with the environment.
The action of norepinephrine is similar to the action of adrenaline, but not all. Norepinephrine, for example, causes contraction of the smooth muscle of the rat's uterus, adrenaline relaxes it. In humans, norepinephrine increases peripheral vascular resistance, as well as systolic and diastolic pressure, and adrenaline leads to an increase only systolic pressure. Adrenaline stimulates the secretion of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland, norepinephrine does not cause a similar effect.
When the secretory nerves of the adrenal glands are irritated, their secretion of adrenaline and norepinephrine increases. In all conditions that are accompanied by excessive activity of the body and increased metabolism (emotional arousal, muscle load, cooling of the body, etc.), the secretion of adrenaline increases. Increased secretion of adrenaline provides those physiological changes that accompany emotional states.
Adrenal cortex. Hypofunction of the adrenal cortex is observed in humans with Addison's disease (bronze disease). Signs of it are the bronze color of the skin, the weakening of the heart muscle, asthenia, cachexia. With hyperfunction, a change in sexual development occurs, as sex hormones begin to be intensely secreted.
The hormones of the adrenal cortex are divided into three groups:
Mineralocorticoids;
Glucocorticoids;
sex hormones.
1. Mineralocorticoids. Of the mineralocorticoids, aldosterone and deoxycorticosterone are the most active. They are involved in the regulation of the body's mineral metabolism, primarily sodium and potassium.
Aldosterone. In the cells of the tubular epithelium of the kidneys, it activates the synthesis of enzymes that increase the activity of the sodium pump, which leads to an increase in the reabsorption of sodium and chlorine in the tubules of the kidney and, consequently, an increase in the sodium content in the blood, lymph and tissue fluid. At the same time, there is a decrease in the reabsorption of potassium ions in the renal tubules and a decrease in its content in the body. An increase in the concentration of sodium in the blood and tissue fluid increases their osmotic pressure, which is accompanied by water retention in the body and an increase in blood pressure.
With a lack of mineralocorticoids, as a result of a decrease in sodium reabsorption in the tubules, the body loses a large amount of these ions, which is often incompatible with life.
Regulation of the level of mineralocorticoids in the blood. The secretion of mineralocorticoids is directly dependent on the content of sodium and potassium in the body. An increased sodium content in the blood inhibits the secretion of aldosterone, and a lack of sodium in the blood causes an increase in the secretion of aldosterone. Potassium ions also act directly on the cells of the adrenal glomerulus and have the opposite effect on the secretion of aldosterone. ACTH increases aldosterone secretion. A decrease in the volume of circulating blood stimulates its secretion, and an increase in volume inhibits it, which leads to the excretion of sodium in the urine, and with it water. This leads to the normalization of the volume of circulating blood and the amount of fluid in the body.
2. Glucocorticoids- cortisone, hydrocortisone, corticosterone affect protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. They are able to increase blood sugar levels (hence their name) by stimulating the formation of glucose in the liver as a result of accelerating the deamination of amino acids and converting their protein-free residues into carbohydrates. They accelerate the breakdown of proteins, which leads to a negative nitrogen balance. Changes in protein metabolism under their influence are different in different tissues. So, in the muscles, protein synthesis is inhibited, in the lymphoid tissue, their enhanced decay occurs, and in the liver, protein synthesis is accelerated.
Glucocorticoids enhance the mobilization of fat from fat depots and its use in energy metabolism. They excite the central nervous system, contribute to the development of muscle weakness and atrophy of skeletal muscles, which is associated with increased breakdown of contractile proteins of muscle fibers.
With insufficient secretion of glucocorticoids, the body's resistance to various harmful effects decreases.
An increase in the release of glucocorticoids occurs during emergency conditions of the body (pain, trauma, blood loss, overheating, hypothermia, poisoning, infectious diseases, etc.), when the secretion of adrenaline reflexively increases. It enters the bloodstream and acts on the hypothalamus, stimulating the formation of a factor in its cells that promotes the formation of ACTH. ACTH also stimulates the secretion of glucocorticoids.
3. Sex hormones of the adrenal cortex. The sex hormones of the adrenal cortex (androgens and estrogens) play an important role in the development of the genital organs in childhood, which is especially important, since during this period the intrasecretory function of the sex glands is still poorly expressed. After reaching puberty, the role of the sex hormones of the adrenal glands is small. However, in old age, after the cessation of the intrasecretory function of the sex glands, the adrenal cortex again becomes the only source of secretion of estrogens and androgens.

The adrenal glands are an important component of the endocrine system, which regulates the work of the entire human body. The functions of the adrenal glands contribute to normal life, so any failures in them can lead to irreparable complications. The right adrenal gland has the shape of a triangle, and the left - a kind of crescent. The structure of these paired organs is quite complex, but there are two main components, each of which regulates the synthesis of certain hormones:

outer cortical layer of the adrenal glands;
brain matter.

Basic functions and hormones

Why do we need adrenal glands? Thanks to their work, a person is able to adapt to any conditions, both positive and negative. The main functions of the adrenal glands:

production of hormones and substances - mediators;
maintaining stress resistance;
security full recovery after stress;
stimulation of responses to various stimuli;
participation in metabolic processes.

It is worth understanding in more detail what each gland is responsible for:

Resistance to negative environmental influences and quick adaptation to them.
Synthesis of sex hormones that affect the formation of secondary sexual characteristics, libido, etc.
Hormones formed in the cortical substance control the water-electrolyte balance.
Hormonal stimulation of the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system, kidneys and the regulation of blood glucose, blood pressure and expansion of the lumen in the bronchi occurs due to the synthesis of certain hormones in the medulla.
The adrenal glands are also responsible for volume muscle mass and the rate of aging.
Participation in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
With their help, the choice of certain taste preferences is regulated.
Supporting the immune system is an integral function of the adrenal glands in the human body.

Support of the immune system is impossible without healthy adrenal glands.

The location and peculiar structure allow these glands to grow in size to increase the production of hormones in stressful situations prolonged nature. The importance of the functions of the adrenal glands can hardly be overestimated, because without them it will not be easy for any individual to live in an aggressive environment. Any disruption in the functioning of the glands affects the state of the whole organism.

Differences in function between men and women

In men and women, the adrenal glands produce different hormones depending on the gender. female body receives portions of progesterone and estrogen, and also does not a large number of testosterone. But if estrogen is able to produce and female ovaries, then in the male body it is produced exclusively by the adrenal glands, like testosterone.

Causes of disruption

Infection in the body disrupts the normal functioning of the adrenal glands.

The normal functionality of the adrenal glands can be impaired by the following factors:

autoimmune diseases, congenital pathologies that negatively affect the functionality of these organs (for example, HIV or inflammatory processes);
tuberculosis, syphilis and other infections of the adrenal glands;
malignant and benign tumors these glands, cysts and metastases from damage to other organs, which, together with blood, deliver cancer cells throughout the body;
surgery resulting in infection;
vascular pathology;
heredity (for example, mutations);
dysfunction of the pituitary or hypothalamus;
liver damage, nephritis or heart failure can lead to the development of a disease such as hyperaldosteronism;
prolonged stress that provokes weakness of the adrenal glands;
reception hormonal drugs, abrupt rejection from them or the introduction of insulin, as well as the negative impact of toxic drugs and substances;
functional failures in the brain, or rather, in the part responsible for the work of the adrenal glands;
exposure to ionizing and radiation radiation;
birth trauma in infants, pregnancy and menopause in women;
wrong mode and diet.

Additional risks for the adrenal glands in the female body

In women, the endocrine system is increased loads in two cases:

Pregnancy. During this period, hormonal needs increase in future mother, therefore, in the first trimester, she may experience a slight malaise due to the unpreparedness of the body for additional stress. Given state will pass after the body of the fetus begins to produce hormones, which occurs from the 2nd trimester and stabilizes by the 3rd. Then the pregnant woman will not experience discomfort.
The onset of menopause. Sudden menopause is a huge stress for the adrenal glands. They must take over the sole synthesis of estrogen, because the ovaries stop doing this. This adversely affects their activity, causing excessive overload or other important adrenal hormones may be produced in insufficient quantities. Possible appearance pain in the knees, lower back or increased photosensitivity of the eyes.

General symptomatic picture of disorders of the adrenal glands

Chronic fatigue signals a violation in the function of the adrenal glands.

Untimely treatment of diseases of the adrenal glands can play a negative role in all subsequent human life. Therefore, you need to carefully listen to your body and if you find several of the following symptoms, contact a medical institution:

chronic fatigue, which is permanent;
muscle weakness;
excessive irritability;
bad sleep;
anorexia or, conversely, female-type obesity;
vomiting, feeling of nausea;
increase in pressure;
sometimes increased pigmentation may appear in open areas of the body (skin around the nipples, skin folds on the hands, elbows darken) or stomach;
alopecia.

The most common cause of the disease this body is an imbalance of one or another hormone or group. Depending on the type of hormone, the synthesis of which failed, develop certain symptoms. Here are a couple of examples: Self-diagnosis at the first symptoms of the disease.

If the above signs are found, a person at first can check the work of this component of the endocrine system at home using the following manipulations:

Carry out measurements of blood pressure in the morning and evening in two positions at intervals of 5 minutes: standing and lying down. If the results show that the pressure in the standing position is lower than lying down, then this is a clear indicator of violations.
Carry out measurements of body temperature throughout the day in the amount of 3 times: 3 hours after the rise, then after 2 hours and after 2 more. Perform these manipulations for 5 days and calculate the average temperature after. With a fluctuation of more than 0.2 degrees, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination.
It is necessary to stand in front of a mirror in a dimly lit room and shine a flashlight into the eyes from the side, while observing the state of the pupils. The norm is the narrowing of the pupils, their expansion or the appearance of a sensation of pulsation in them - a signal to visit a doctor.

Adrenal glands (lat. glandulae suprarenales) are small flattened paired glands yellowish color located on the upper poles of both kidneys. Average weight one gland is from 8 to 10 g. The right adrenal gland is triangular, and the left (larger) is in the shape of a crescent. Each kidney is surrounded by a special fatty capsule. The adrenal glands consist of two parts: the outer cortical (bark) and the inner medulla. The cortical layer of the adrenal glands complements the excretory function of the gonads. There are three zones in the adrenal cortex: glomerular, fascicular and reticular. These zones contain fat-like substances, cholesterol, neutral fats and vitamin C. The adrenal medulla is formed by the so-called chromophin cells containing granules, which, under the action of chromates, are stained in Brown color. The medulla consists of 7-20 needle-shaped renal pyramids connected by a cortical substance.

The adrenal glands are endocrine glands. They produce vital hormones for the body.

Hormones of the adrenal cortex

The hormones of the adrenal cortex are derivatives of in their chemical structure, the basis of their chemical structure is a steroid ring of 17 carbon atoms. Their initial product of synthesis is cholesterol, from which pregnenolone is first formed, and later, under the influence of hydrogenase and dehydrogenase enzymes, a number of hormones. In the event that in the first stage of the conversion of progesterone hydroxylation occurs in the 17th position, the process ends with the formation of cortisol, with hydroxylation in the 21st position - corticosterone. Cortisol can be formed during the hydroxylation of pregnenolone, bypassing the stage of formation of progesterone from 17-hydroxypregnenolone. The latter, like 17-hydroxyprogesterone, is the initial product of the synthesis of sex hormones.

Depending on the number of carbon atoms, three main groups of compounds are distinguished: having 21 carbon atoms (C 21 -steroids), 19 carbon atoms (C 19 -steroids) and 18 carbon atoms (C 18 -steroids), C 21 -steroids are called " corticosteroids", C 19 - and C 18 -steroids - "sex hormones" (androgens and estrogens, respectively). Currently, 50 steroid compounds have been isolated from the cortical substance, 8 of which are biologically active.

According to their biological action, corticosteroids are divided into glucocorticoids, the main representatives of which are hydrocortisone (cortisol) and corticosterone, and mineralocorticoids, respectively, aldosterone. Cortisol and corticosterone are produced mainly in beam zone, aldosterone and partially corticosterone, as a precursor of aldosterone, are formed in the glomerular zone.

Adults produce about 20-30 mg of cortisol and 2-4 mg of corticosterone per day. Most high level cortisol is noted in the interval from 6 to 8 am, then the concentration of the hormone in the blood slowly decreases. At 18-20 hours, its content in the blood is 2-2.5 times less compared to that in the morning. This decrease continues until 22-24 hours - by this time the level of cortisol in the blood is minimal. Cortisol secretion is markedly increased after eating, mental stress, for different stressful conditions that place high demands on the body physical stress, physical influences, infection, intoxication, etc.). Corticosterone also has a diurnal secretion rhythm similar to that of cortisol at 10-20% of cortisol secretion.

In addition to cortisol, the adrenal glands secrete cortisone (the ratio of cortisone secretion to cortisol is 1:25) and a small amount of 11-deoxycortisol (compound S, cortexolone). According to studies, at 8 am, the content of cortisol in the blood plasma is 300 nmol / l (140-430 nmol / l), corticosterone - 40 nmol / l (6-127 nmol / l), cortisone - 40-70 nmol / l (when determined by the fluorometric method). Higher levels of cortisol in blood plasma are observed in men. In the blood, cortisol exists in three forms: 80% of the hormone is associated with corticosteroid-binding globulin or transcortin, 10% with albumin, and 10% is in a free state. The bond of cortisol to protein acts as a depot for the hormone, protecting it from chemical and enzymatic action, prolonging its half-life, and preventing or slowing down its renal excretion.

The formation and secretion of glucocorticoids and androgens by the adrenal cortex is regulated by the hypothalamic-adenohypophyseal system, which has been confirmed by numerous experimental studies and clinical observations. In the mediobasal region of the hypothalamus, which is called the pituitary, there are receptors for binding steroid hormones. Similar receptive fields are present in the adenohypophysis. The mediobasal area of the hypothalamus has a direct connection with the adenohypophysis through the portal vessels. The corticotropin produced by the basophilocytes of the adenohypophysis has a direct effect on the adrenal cortex.

The synthesis and release of corticosteroid hormones into the peripheral blood is regulated by the hypothalamic-adenohypophyseal system according to the feedback principle: a decrease in the content of steroid hormones through the receptors of the mediobasal region of the hypothalamus serves as a signal for increased formation in the nuclei of its neurohormone - corticoliberin ("long connection"), which enters the portal system adenohypophysis, and then to the adenohypophysis, acting on the receptors of basophilic cells and stimulating the formation of corticotropin. In turn, corticotropin has a humoral effect on the cells of the adrenal cortex, stimulates the formation of corticosteroids. With an increase in the content of corticosteroids in the blood, exceeding the required level, the formation of hypothalamic hormones, pituitary corticotropin, and, consequently, corticosteroids decreases. Cortisone and synthetic glucocorticoids have an inhibitory effect on the secretion of corticotropin.

Corticosteroids act not only on the receptors of the hypothalamic cells, but also on the basophilocytes of the adenohypophysis, according to the feedback principle, regulating the formation and entry of corticotropin into the blood.

The secretion of corticoliberin by the hypothalamus to a certain extent also depends on the influence of corticotropin of the adenohypophysis (the same feedback mechanism is a “short” connection). A direct effect of the level of cortisol in the blood plasma on the adrenal glands was also shown, which is manifested by a decrease in the sensitivity of the cortical substance to corticotropin. In addition to the mediobasal region of the hypothalamus, hormonal regulation of corticotropin and corticosteroids is carried out by its other fields, as well as by extrahypothalamic nerve formations and overlying parts of the central nervous system, which have a corrective effect on the synthesis of releasing hormones depending on information coming from other parts of the brain, including cerebral cortex.

The secretion of corticotropin is affected by serotonin, vasopressin, which increases the sensitivity of the pituitary gland to subthreshold amounts of corticoliberin, as well as histamine; increase in tone vagus nerve leads to a decrease in hormone formation in the adrenal cortex, the sympathetic nerve - to an increase both due to an increase in the formation of catecholamines and a direct effect on the hypothalamus.

Along with the effect on the synthesis of steroid hormones, corticotropin stimulates melanocytes, increasing skin pigmentation, also has a fat-mobilizing effect (release of NEFA from adipose tissue), promotes fat oxidation, hydrolysis of neutral fats, enhances ketogenesis, stimulates milk production, promotes the accumulation of glycogen in muscles, and reduces amino acids. in the blood and increase their entry into the muscles, enhances the use of glucocorticoids by tissues, inhibits their breakdown in the liver, and stimulates insulin secretion.

The adenohypophysis has a minimal spontaneous activity that ensures the secretion of a small amount of corticotropin necessary to maintain the "basal" secretion of cortisol. The secretion of corticotropin increases under various endogenous and exogenous influences under the influence of corticotropin-releasing hormone. There is a daily rhythm of secretion of corticotropin, and therefore, glucocorticoids with a maximum increase in the morning (by 6.00) and a minimum - by night (20.00-24.00).

Glucocorticoids

The action of glucocorticoids on the body is extremely diverse and is carried out by changing the permeability cell membranes, influence on the synthesis of enzymatic protein, as well as on the activity of enzymes. The action of glucocorticoids is manifested at the level of genes in target organs by selective activation of specific messenger and ribosomal RNA, stimulation of protein synthesis from amino acids brought on the transfer RNA. Along with the activation of the synthesis of enzymes, glucocorticoids affect their activity, changing it depending on the specific conditions of the internal and external environment. The influence of glucocorticoids on the processes of regulation of homeostasis constancy can be direct, aimed at metabolic processes, and permissive (permissive), aimed at providing a number of physiological processes that can only occur in the presence of glucocorticoids.

The most pronounced metabolic action of cortisol. This primarily applies to carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

Glucocorticoids activate the enzymatic processes of gluconeogenesis, which are inextricably linked with their catabolic (protein breakdown, increased tissue content of glucogenic amino acids - alanine, glutamic acid, etc.) and antianabolic (inhibition of protein synthesis from amino acids) action. Under the influence of cortisol, protein content in muscles decreases and connective tissue, including in the bones, increases the formation and breakdown of albumin in the liver.

Amino acids undergoing deamination in the liver serve as a source of glucose formation. By increasing the content of glycogen in the liver and less in the muscles, weakening the transport of glucose through the cell membrane, glucocorticoids reduce its utilization on the periphery, increase blood sugar levels, causing glycosuria, which also depends on lowering the permeability threshold for glucose in the kidneys. Cortisol has the most pronounced effect on carbohydrate metabolism, cortisone is weaker, and corticosterone is least of all. Along with the catabolic effect, glucocorticoids have an antianabolic effect associated with a decrease in the supply of amino acids to the cell.

Glucocorticoids are necessary not only for gluconeogenesis, but also for glycogenolysis, having a permissive effect in this regard on adrenaline and glucagon. They also stimulate lipolysis processes and promote gluconeogenesis. In turn, free fatty acids reduce the activity of anaerobic glycolysis processes. Pharmacological doses, significantly exceeding physiological, stimulate the activity of enzymes of the pentose phosphate cycle of glucose oxidation, lead to increased synthesis of fatty acids and fat deposition.

By enhancing the processes of gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, increasing blood sugar levels and, consequently, insulin secretion, glucocorticoids promote lipogenesis. At the same time, having a permissive effect on catecholamines and growth hormone, they enhance lipolysis, increase the content of fatty acids in the blood. Glucocorticoids have a significant effect on water and electrolyte metabolism by increasing the rate glomerular filtration, reducing tubular reabsorption and increasing the content of sodium and, consequently, water in the extracellular space. Possessing a weak mineralocorticoid effect, cortisol enhances sodium reabsorption in the tubules of the kidneys, while at the same time increasing the permeability of the cell membrane selectively for potassium ions, promotes the release of potassium. Cortisol also reduces the reabsorption of calcium and phosphorus in the tubules of the kidneys, increases clearance and loss of calcium in the urine. Calcium loss is increased due to decalcification of bones due to the catabolic effect of cortisol on bone tissue protein and the decrease in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines under its influence. Cortisol reduces the sensitivity of the tubules of the kidneys to vasopressin, inhibits its release into the blood, increasing diuresis.

The change in water-salt metabolism is closely related to the regulation of blood pressure: increased sodium reabsorption, its retention in the walls of arterioles, and their swelling increase the pressor reaction of the vessels, which is also facilitated by the permissive effect of glucocorticoids on catecholamines.

The functional state of the adrenal cortex affects the alkaline reserve, which has an inverse relationship with the intracellular concentration of sodium and potassium. Glucocorticoids in high doses lead to the development of alkalosis and increase the sensitivity of adrenoreceptors of the cardiovascular system to the action of catecholamines.

Glucocorticoids have an anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing the activity of hyaluroidase, reducing the synthesis of histamine and enhancing its destruction (due to the activation of histaminase), therefore, reduce endothelial damage, reduce capillary permeability. In allergic reactions, hormones reduce sensitization, reduce the sensitivity of tissues to an allergic reaction, however, they are not purely antihistamines, since they do not reduce the tissue response to histamine. Glucocorticoids inhibit the formation of fibroblasts, mitosis and reduce the amount of collagen in the connective tissue. The effect of glucocorticoids on immunogenesis depends primarily on their level in the blood. In normal physiological doses, hormones have a normalizing effect on the body's defense reactions, increase the level of antibodies. Only large doses of glucocorticoids have an adverse effect.

Glucocorticoids stimulate the formation of red blood cells, neutrophilic granulocytes, platelets, reduce the blood content of not only lymphocytes, but also eosinophilic granulocytes, contribute to an increase in free hydrochloric acid, total acidity, the formation of pepsin and increased excretion it with urine, reduce the content of mucopolysaccharides in the gastric mucosa.

Cortisol has an effect on functional state central nervous system, participates in the regulation of perception and integration of sensory impulses, lowers the threshold of electrical excitation of the brain. An important role belongs to glucocorticoids in the regulation of the functional state of the cardiovascular system, ensuring the normal contractile function of the myocardium, proper blood volume and microcirculation. This action is due not only to the influence of cortisol on various metabolic, including energy, processes in the heart muscle.

The system hypothalamus - pituitary - adrenal cortex plays a very important role in the system defensive reactions organism - stress. At the moment of stress, the need for tissues in cortisol sharply increases, the secretion of which increases by 5-10 times. Significant influence on the functional state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system is exerted by the higher parts of the central nervous system, psycho-emotional state personality.

Glucocorticoids play important role in increasing the body's resistance to the effects of a variety of adverse factors, have a normalizing effect on general hemodynamics and microcirculation, which is especially important in case of shock, collapse, have a powerful anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory effect, reduce the permeability of cell membranes, protect them structural elements from adverse impact toxic substances, slow down cell division, enhance cell differentiation, limit the excessive intensity of the temperature reaction (fever). All this, undoubtedly, testifies to the exceptional role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system, glucocorticoids in the regulation of the body's defense reactions, increasing its resistance to various adverse effects on the body, which explains the widespread use of glucocorticoids in the clinic, including in the treatment of various diseases. emergency conditions. Prolonged stress exposure leads to excessive stimulation of the adrenal cortex by adrenocorticotropic hormone, which leads to its hyperfunction, and then to depletion.

Mineralocorticoids

In the glomerular zone of the adrenal cortex, other adrenal hormones are synthesized - mineralocorticoids, the main representative of which is aldosterone. Aldosterone is formed from corticosterone, the precursor of which is 11-deoxycorticosterone (DOC). At healthy people aldosterone secretion under normal salt regime fluctuates within 70-580 nmol/day (on average about 280 nmol/day), in the morning 55-445 nmol/l (250 nmol/l), increases significantly in vertical position and physical activity. The precursor of corticosterone and aldosterone -11-deoxycorticosterone (DOC, cortexon) is secreted at a rate of 130-430 nmol / day, its amount in the blood plasma in the morning is 120-545, an average of 210 nmol / l.

Aldosterone secretion is regulated by the renin-angiotensin system, corticotropin, and plasma concentrations of potassium and sodium. The most important physiological stimulator of aldosterone biosynthesis and secretion in the adrenal cortex is angiotensin II and III. The trigger mechanism in the formation of apgiotensin is renin, which promotes the formation of angiotensin I from an inactive precursor protein, angiotensinogen. Further conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II and III occurs under the influence of a converting enzyme. Angiotensin II and III stimulate the biosynthesis of aldosterone in the adrenal glands.

Renin secretion is regulated by the ratio of sodium and potassium in the extracellular space, the volume of circulating blood and the degree of distension of the afferent arteries of the glomeruli of the nephron. A decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in circulating blood, stretching of the arteries, an increase in potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia), a decrease in sodium (hyponatremia) increases the secretion of renin, the formation of angiotensin II and III, and the secretion of aldosterone. Aldosterone, in turn, increases sodium retention, increases potassium excretion, increases blood volume and blood pressure.

Thus, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is unified system regulation and self-regulation of electrolyte balance and blood pressure. When the sodium balance is disturbed, angiotensins II and III are the main regulators of the function of the adrenal cortex, in the glomerular zone of which there are receptors for them. Angiotensin II increases the number of receptors, and also increases the activity of aldosterone biosynthesis enzymes.

Fluid loss is a major factor influencing aldosterone secretion on a low-salt diet in healthy individuals. This is considered as compensatory mechanism, aimed at maintaining the volume of extracellular fluid due to an increase in sodium reabsorption in the tubules of the kidneys, an increase in osmotic pressure in the cortical and medulla of the kidneys and, consequently, an increase in water reabsorption. Hypersecretion of aldosterone inhibits the release of renin, therefore, reduces the formation of angiotensin II and III, which leads to a decrease and normalization of aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone secretion is less regulated by corticotropin. The dependence of aldosterone secretion on the time of day (more during the day, less at night), body position (in horizontal position- less, in vertical - more).

Main biological action mineralocorticoids consists in sodium retention (due to blocking of the enzyme systems of the kidneys) and potassium excretion. Aldosterone has a weak (3 times less than cortisol) glucocorticoid action, enhances the release of calcium and magnesium.

Deoxycorticosterone (DOC) is an intermediate product of aldosterone formation. Aldosterone and deoxycorticosterone differ in their potency.

DOC is 30 times weaker than aldosterone in retaining sodium, and to a greater extent contributes to the excretion of potassium, the development of hypertension and kidney damage. With excessive administration of DOC against the background of hypokalemia, damage to the tubules of the kidneys and the development of diabetes insipidus may occur.

Corticosteroids in the blood undergo various transformations. The first product of cortisol metabolism is cortisone. In the liver, glucocorticoids are converted into tetrahydro derivatives, cortols and cortolons. An insignificant part of cortisol (about 10%) is converted into 11-OX and 17-CS. The main amount of glucocorticoids, undergoing transformations, is combined in the liver mainly with glucuronic, less with sulfuric and phosphoric acids and is excreted from the body in this form. Free, not associated with transcortin and albumin, cortisol is filtered in the glomeruli of the kidneys, but 80-90% of it is reabsorbed in the tubules, and only a small part is excreted unchanged from the body. In renal pathology, the excretion of metabolites and free cortisol may change. With age, the half-life of cortisol lengthens and its excretion slows down.

sex hormones

Enhance the action of hormones secreted by the gonads. The main representatives of this group are androgens. These hormones also stimulate muscle growth. In the body of men, androgens are produced more than in women. With increased secretion of these hormones, women manifest virilism (the presence of secondary male sexual characteristics in women).

medulla hormones

The adrenal medulla produces catecholamine hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine). These hormones are also called "stress hormones", as their content increases dramatically during physical or psychological stress. Release into the blood stress hormones accompanied by increased heart rate and respiration, increased blood pressure, accelerated metabolism. In addition, glycogen stored in the liver and muscles is broken down into glucose. With a deficiency of these hormones in the blood, the sugar content decreases, blood pressure decreases, and weakness occurs.

If a person is too nervous, constantly experiencing physical or psychological stress, then his body is in active state due to increased secretion of adrenaline and norepinephrine. As a result, there is pain in the stomach, headache, increased blood pressure.

Adrenal hormones are biologically active substances which have a great influence on the functioning of the whole organism. When their content deviates from the norm, numerous violations of the functioning of organs and systems develop.

Let's find out the names of adrenal hormones and the tests that need to be taken to determine the level of these important substances in our body.

What hormones are secreted by the adrenal glands?

The adrenal glands consist of two layers - the outer cortex and the inner medulla. Produced in the cortex corticosteroid and sex hormones. The first ones include:

cortisol;
cortisone;
aldosterone;
corticosterone;
deoxycorticosterone.

in number sex hormones produced by the adrenal cortex include:

dehydroepiandrosterone;
dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate;
testosterone;
estradiol;
estrone;
estriol;
pregnenolone;
17-hydroxyprogesterone.

The medulla is responsible for the synthesis of catecholamine hormones, which include epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Their effect on the body

Cortisol supports the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It also provides normal functioning cardiovascular and nervous systems and is involved in the regulation of immunity.

The production of this hormone increases during stress, which leads to improved heart function and increased concentration.

Cortisone, which is also called hydrocortisone, is responsible for the processing of proteins into carbohydrates, and also inhibits the work of the lymphoid organs, that is, the organs of the immune system. Their suppression allows you to control the inflammatory process.

Aldosterone is responsible for maintaining the water balance in the body and regulates the content of certain metals. It provides an optimal concentration in the blood of the most important electrolytes - potassium and sodium.

Corticosterone and deoxycorticosterone take part in the regulation of metabolism minerals, including - provide retention of sodium ions by the kidneys. Of these two hormones, deoxycorticosterone has a stronger effect on salt metabolism.

Corticosterone takes an active part in the regulation of protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism, metabolic rate and wake-sleep cycle.

Adrenalin responsible for the mobilization of the body in the event of an external threat. Its production increases dramatically when there is a sense of danger, anxiety and fear, after injuries and burns. Severe stress and shock conditions also cause an increase in its secretion.

Thanks to the action of adrenaline, the work of the heart muscle is activated, all vessels are narrowed, with the exception of the vessels of the brain, blood pressure rises, metabolism in tissues accelerates and the tone of skeletal muscles increases.

Norepinephrine is the precursor to adrenaline. Its level also increases with stress, fear and anxiety, the emergence of an external threat, trauma, burns and shock conditions.

Unlike adrenaline, it has little effect on the functioning of the heart muscle and tissue metabolism, but has a stronger vasoconstrictor effect.

Pregnenolone is a steroid hormone that is involved in the regulation of the nervous system. It also ensures the production of other steroids in the body. Pregnenolone, which was synthesized in the adrenal glands, is converted into dehydroepiandrosterone or cortisol.

Dehydroepiandrosterone is a male steroid hormone. In the body of a representative of the stronger sex, he is responsible for the formation of sexual characteristics, the growth of muscle mass and sexual activity. In relatively small quantities it must also be contained in .

Based on dehydroepiandrosterone, 27 other hormones are synthesized, including estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate- another male sex hormone, which in the fairer sex is responsible for the regulation sexual life, sexual desire and menstrual pauses. It also ensures the normal course of the gestation process.

Testosterone- This is the main male sex hormone, which in women is involved in the regulation of muscle and fat mass and sexual desire. It is responsible for breast formation, normal flow, muscle tone and emotional stability.

Estrone- this is a substance from the group of estrogens - female sex hormones, which also includes estradiol and estriol. They are responsible for the development of the uterus, vagina and mammary glands, as well as secondary female sexual characteristics, which include features of appearance and character.

Estriol is the least active female sex hormone. Its concentration increases during pregnancy. This substance is involved in the processes of growth and development of the uterus, improves blood flow through its vessels, and also contributes to the development of the ducts of the mammary glands.

17-hydroxyprogesterone is a hormone that transforms in the body into androstenedione, which, in turn, turns into testosterone and estrogen.

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Deviation of content from the norm

Excess cortisol leads to the destruction of muscle tissue. Also increased content this hormone leads to obesity, excess weight at the same time it is deposited mainly on the face and in the abdomen.

At an increase in aldosterone there is an increase in the level of sodium in the blood, while the concentration of potassium decreases. An increase in the level of this hormone leads to an increase in blood pressure, headaches and increased fatigue.

Excess corticosterone causes an increase in blood pressure, a decrease in immunity and the appearance of fatty deposits, especially in the waist area. With an increased concentration of this hormone, the risk of developing stomach ulcers and diabetes increases.

At an increase in deoxycorticosterone Conn's syndrome develops. This condition is characterized by increased production of aldosterone, resulting in an excess of this hormone.

In Conn's syndrome, blood pressure rises, blood sodium rises, and potassium levels fall.

Deviation from the norm of the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate leads to violations of vitality, mood and intimate life.

Increasing testosterone levels causes in women whole complex adverse effects. These include:

menstrual disorders;
inability to conceive a child;
violation of the course of pregnancy;
the development of secondary male sexual characteristics - coarsening of the voice, the appearance of vegetation on the face and body, changes in the figure;
increased risk of developing diabetes;
male pattern baldness;
skin problems;
increased sweating;
aggressiveness;
sleep disorders;
depression.

Pathological increase in estrogen levels(see the norm in the table below) in women also causes a large number of deviations in the body. This state manifests itself:

nausea and dizziness;
increased fatigue;
irritability;
sleep disorders;
pain in the abdomen;
menstrual disorders;
disorders of the digestive system;
increased hair loss and skin problems.

If a elevated level estrogen persists for a long time, more serious problems can develop - thyroid disease, osteoporosis, convulsions, pathologies of the nervous system, mental disorders, inability to conceive a child, breast cancer.

Increasing the concentration of 17-hydroxyprogesterone leads to skin problems, excessive hair growth and thinning, high blood sugar and menstrual irregularities.

If high levels of this hormone persist for a long time, diabetes, hypertonic disease and heart disease.

How to check the level?

If you suspect a deviation from the norm of the content of adrenal hormones, you need to donate blood, saliva or urine. They do not take much time and allow you to accurately determine the presence of problems.

Disorders of the hormonal background lead to numerous disturbances in the functioning of the body and increase the risk of developing diseases, so the importance of such examinations can hardly be overestimated.

Before taking a blood test for dehydroepiandrosterone, it is recommended to get a good night's sleep and avoid overwork. The study should be done in the morning on an empty stomach or after 4 hours after eating.

To obtain reliable data after an aldosterone test, it is recommended For two weeks before the study, reduce carbohydrate intake, and the day before the procedure - avoid physical and emotional overload.

The results are influenced by drugs that lower blood pressure and hormonal agents.

Before donating blood to determine the level of total cortisol, it is necessary to stop taking hormonal drugs, physical activity and smoking.

Also used to measure cortisol levels. 24 hour saliva analysis. In this study, the material for the study is taken four times during the day. This allows you to more fully determine the picture of the work of the adrenal glands.

To determine the level of norepinephrine and adrenaline, you can take a blood or urine test.

Your doctor will help you decide which tests to take. Assign a study on the level of adrenal hormones can:

therapist;
endocrinologist;
urologist;
gynecologist;
cardiologist;
oncologist.

From the normal functioning of the adrenal glands depends on the state of the whole organism. Therefore, if there is a suspicion of a deviation in the content of hormones that produce these glands, it is necessary to be examined from the norm.

After establishing violations, you can choose the appropriate one to avoid the adverse consequences of hormonal disorders.

A psychologist will tell you more about the hormone cortisol in our body in the video: