the endocrine system

• thee endocrine system is a collection of glands around the body which regulate bodily functions, growth and psychological functions

  this acts by releasing chemical messengers called hormones into the bloodstream
• a gland is a group of cells that are specialised to secrete a useful substance such as hormones
• hormones are chemical messengers that travel via the bloodstream to target organs
• pituitary gland: controls release of hormones from other glands, known as the master gland
• hypothalamus: links the nervous system to the endocrine system

  maintains homeostasis of bodily functions
• pineal gland: moderates sleep pattern, keeping the body to a day/night circadian rhythm

  releases melatonin
• pancreas: regulates blood sugar levels, problems with this system leads to diabetes

  releases insulin and glucagon
• adrenal glands: regulates biological effects of the fight or flight response, does this by increasing heart rate, blood supply to muscles and sweating etc.

  releases adrenaline and cortisol
• ovaries and testes: reproductive glands

  releases oestrogen and testosterone
• endocrine system communication is slower, long-lasting and widespread compared to the nervous system
• the fight or flight response is when the body is threatened and prepares for action

  it is an evolutionary survival mechanism
• acute stress is a common form of stress in response to immediate pressures, can be exciting in small amounts and give you focus and energy.

  this is exhausting if maintained
• chronic stress is where the body is constantly under a state of stress, which can lead to illness
• the process of fight or flight: