The endocrine system is a control system of glands that secrete hormones which circulate within the body via the blood stream. It is instrumental in regulating metabolism, mood, growth, development, tissue function and repair and sexual reproduction.
Examples of endocrine glands include:
- Thyroid gland—located in the front of the neck and regulates the body's overall metabolism, parathyroid surgery and parathyroid hormone.
- Parathyroid glands—four parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid control calcium levels throughout the body.
- Adrenal glands—two glands located on the top of each kidney maintain salt levels in the blood, maintain blood pressure, help control kidney function and control overall fluid concentrations in the body.
- Neuroendocrine glands of the pancreas—located behind the stomach, they control blood sugar and overall glucose metabolism, parathyroid surgery and parathyroid hormone.
- Pituitary gland—located at the base of the brain, it controls the activity of many other endocrine glands (e.g. thyroid, adrenal, ovaries etc.).
Symptoms and characteristics
There are hundreds of endocrine disorders and diseases with varying characteristics and symptoms. Common examples include diabetes and thyroid problems.
Workplace adjustments and solutions
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References
Endocrine Web and the Norman Endocrine Surgery Clinic 2002, Introduction to Endocrinology & Endocrine Surgery, Norman Endocrine Surgery Clinic, Florida, viewed 16 April 2007, <http://www.endocrineweb.com/whatisendo.html>.
Links to specific types of endocrine system disorders