Doctor! Doctor! I need your help!

What seems to be the issue?

I think my Endocrine System is Broken! I'm not growing anymore!

Haha, you can't break your Endocrine system! But let's have a look.

You should first know that the basic function of the Endocrine System is that it is made of many glands that produce hormones, which are chemical substances in our bodies that regulate organ activity. They also regulate the body's growth, metabolism, and sexual development.

Wow, that's good to know! Is there any part of the body responsible for these hormones?

Yes, in fact, there are many! would you like to learn about them?

Yes!

The first organ is the Hypothalamus. This organ releases hormones, regulates body temperature, emotional responses, & other physical activity.

Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus has 3 main regions. The anterior region releases important hormones like Oxytocin and Vassopressin, AKA antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

Oxytocin controls our behaviors and emotions. Vasopressin regulates water levels and when it is released it signals kidneys to absorb water.

Now the pituitary gland. This is divided into 3 sections. Anterior, Intermediate, & Posterior lobe. The anterior lobe is involved in body development. Intermediate lobe releases hormones that stimulate melanocytes, cells which skin color. Posterior lobe produces antidiuretic hormone, which gets water from kidneys and brings it in the bloodstream to prevent dehydration.

Pituitary Gland

Hormones produced by the pituitary gland senses the body's needs and send signals to different organs. The growth hormone regulates growth and our metabolism. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) stimulates thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormones

Now the Thyroid. This is a small ductless gland located in the neck, with 2 lobes. It’s function is to take iodine, which is a chemical element found in the food we eat, and convert it into hormones.

Thyroid

These hormones are called thyroxine and triiodothyronine. But, the thyroid also produces another hormone, called calcitonin. Calcitonin come from c-cells, and are produced to regulate levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood, and increasing bone calcium.

Parathyroid

Now, the Parathyroid glands, which are 4 small glands which regulate the calcium in our blood and bones, and are located in the neck behind the thyroid.

Parathyroid glands regulate the calcium by producing a hormone called Parathyroid Hormone (PTH). Calcium is the most important element in our bodies (we use it to control many organ systems), so calcium is regulated more carefully than any other element.