Question

Name the main hormone secreted by the adrenal glands? Give its function.

Answer 1

Hint: Adrenal glands are also termed as suprarenal glands. These are endocrine glands which produce a variety of hormones and are present just above each kidney in human beings. These glands are triangular in shape.

Complete answer:
The main hormone produced by the adrenal gland is adrenaline, which is formed in the medulla of adrenal glands. This hormone is released at the time of stress. And adrenaline is also known as fight or flight hormone.

The functions of adrenaline are as follows-
• The secretion of adrenaline hormone causes the air passages of the body to dilate, for providing the muscles with a supply of oxygen. This is needed to either flee or fight with the danger.
• It also triggers blood vessels to contract, so that the blood flow can be re-directed towards the muscles which are in need at the moment. These muscles groups also include the muscles of lungs and heart.
• Due to the excretion of adrenaline, the body reduces its ability to detect pain. This is the reason why one could keep running for a longer time, or could keep fighting despite getting injured.
• This hormone also increases the performance and strength of a person. In addition to it, one’s ability of awareness also increases.

Note: After the release of adrenaline hormone one could feel light- headedness, vision changes, and dizziness. If the hormone releases excessively without any real danger then it could cause insomnia, nervousness, and also heart damage.