Chapter 23: The Endocrine System

Vocabulary flashcards covering key endocrine and diabetes-related terms from the lecture notes.

diabetes

A condition that occurs when the pancreas produces no insulin, too little insulin, or does not properly use insulin; causes circulation problems and can damage vital organs.

glands

Organs that produce and secrete chemicals called hormones.

hormones

Chemical substances produced by the body that control numerous body functions.

hyperglycemia

High blood glucose (blood sugar).

hyperthyroidism

A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, causing body processes to speed up and metabolism to increase.

hypoglycemia

Low blood glucose (blood sugar); also known as insulin reaction or insulin shock.

hypothyroidism

A condition in which the body lacks thyroid hormone, causing body processes to slow down.

insulin

A hormone produced in the pancreas and released from the pancreas that moves glucose from the blood into the cells for energy.

polydipsia

Excessive thirst.

polyphagia

Excessive hunger.

polyuria

Excessive urination.

prediabetes

A condition in which a person's blood glucose levels are above normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

thyroid

A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck responsible for regulating metabolism and growth.