Skip to Main Content

Healthwise® Health Information

Health library

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D
  5. E
  6. F
  7. G
  8. H
  9. I
  10. J
  11. K
  12. L
  13. M
  14. N
  15. O
  16. P
  17. Q
  18. R
  19. S
  20. T
  21. U
  22. V
  23. W
  24. X
  25. Y
  26. Z
  27. 0-9

Adrenal glands

Top of the page

Adrenal glands

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.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.