The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys. The hormones
produced by the adrenal glands affect nearly every organ in the body.
The inner layer of the adrenal gland releases substances (hormones)
such as adrenaline that:
- Help control blood pressure.
- Help
the body react to stress by increasing heart rate, opening the airways, and
shifting blood flow to the large muscles.
The outer layer of the adrenal gland releases hormones such as
cortisol that:
- Help the body deal with
stress.
- Help control the breakdown of fats and proteins to make
sugars in the liver.
- Control blood pressure and the blood levels of
some substances (such as potassium and sodium).
- Affect sexual
development and reproduction.
Last Updated:
June 26, 2008
Author:
Bets Davis, MFA
Medical Review:
Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine & David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
