Endocrinology: Introduction

Looking at the word Endocrinology, the first thing that would usually enter your mind is “hormones”. Basically hormones since this are secreted by the Endocrine System. Without studying Endocrinology further, we all know that hormones are the reason why we undergo puberty during adolescence, why we experience menstruation for girls and deepening of voice and broadening of shoulders for boys to name a few. Also, we know that hormones are responsible for the maintenance of glucose level in the blood, why we undergo growth and development and why people have different rate of metabolism. These statements are logically correct because Endocrinology plays a role in the development of the reproductive system of the body. The male and female secretes sex hormones Testosterone (male), Estrogen and Progesterone (female) that contributes to their growth and development especially in the development of their sexual characteristics. 

the menstrual cycle

 For the Glucose Level and other blood nutrients in the body to be maintained, the hormone “cortisol” which is the major hormone of glucocorticoids helps in the breakdown of fats and proteins in the body so that they can be use as energy. 

Growth hormones are responsible for the development of the bones and muscles. These secretions of hormones in the pituitary gland can affect the growth development. For example, too little secretion of growth hormones can lead to “dwarfism” while excess growth hormones can result to “gigantism”.  Other function of the Endocrine System includes regulation of the water balance in the body and regulation of uterine contractions for the period of birth delivery and milk production for mothers. 

The changes that we encounter or feel inside our body are only the effects of these hormones. The role of these hormones in our body is crucial since a little change or disturbance in the balance of these hormones could have a great effect on the normal functioning of our body. 

References : Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology by Seeley, Stephens and Tate ; Clinical Chemistry Review Outlin by Rodolfo Rabor

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