Essential Medical Terminology: Endocrine, Blood, and Heart Systems
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The Endocrine System: Signals and Outcomes
The endocrine system consists of signal senders, the chemical signals they transmit, and the resulting outcomes. The main signal senders are the endocrine glands, which include:
- Hypothalamus
- Pituitary gland
- Thyroid gland
- Parathyroid glands
- Adrenal glands
- Pancreas
- Gonads (Ovaries and Testicles)
Endocrine glands specifically send chemical signals (hormones) to different parts of the body. These hormonal signals generally cause slower, subtler changes compared to the nervous system, which uses electrical signals.
Hormones travel through the body via the bloodstream, but only the intended target cells respond. These cells are keyed with receptors that fit the hormone—much like matching puzzle pieces. The hormone... Continue reading "Essential Medical Terminology: Endocrine, Blood, and Heart Systems" »