The adrenal gland is often referred to as the "stress gland."
Understanding the Adrenal Gland's Role in Stress
The adrenal glands, located on top of each kidney, are crucial endocrine glands playing a vital role in the body's response to stress. They produce several hormones, most notably cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine), which are key players in the body's stress response.
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Cortisol: Often called the "primary stress hormone," cortisol increases blood sugar levels, enhances metabolism, and suppresses the immune system. Elevated cortisol levels are a hallmark of prolonged stress. [Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-cortisol-in-the-body]
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Adrenaline: This hormone triggers the "fight-or-flight" response. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels, preparing the body for immediate action in stressful situations. [Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037]
The adrenal medulla, located within the adrenal gland, is specifically responsible for adrenaline production. [Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/adrenal-glands] The adrenal cortex, the outer layer of the adrenal gland, produces cortisol and other important hormones. [Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23005-adrenal-gland]
The body's response to stress involves a complex interplay of systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which coordinates the release of stress hormones. The adrenal glands are a central component of this system. [Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5686623/]
