Nursing 212

Health Differences Across the Lifespan 2 Study Guide

Chapter Three: Regulatory Mechanisms 3.1 Excess Production of Hormones Disorders Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to affect a variety of biological functions. Neuronal stimulation, chemical substances, or hormones can control the secretion of endocrine glands. Various conditions can cause the endocrine glands to hypersecrete or hyposecrete, leading to altered body functions. Hyposecretion is a condition in which an insufficient amount of substance is secreted. Hypersecretion is a condition in which an excessive amount of substance is secreted.

Endocrine System Glands The posterior pituitary gland regulates fluid balance and facilitates childbirth and prostate gland function. It releases ADH (antidiuretic hormone) and oxytocin, which are produced and stored in the hypothalamus. ADH stimulates the kidneys to reabsorb water, decreasing urine output and supporting blood pressure and blood volume; it also stimulates peripheral blood vessels to constrict. Oxytocin stimulates the uterus to contract for childbirth. It also stimulates mammary glands for milk ejection, and smooth muscles of the prostate gland to contract and eject secretions. The major role of the anterior pituitary gland is to produce and release seven different hormones: thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), interstitial cell stimulating hormones (ICSH), and growth hormone (GH).

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