pt tech - endocrine

the endocrine system, as it is responsible for

secreting chemicals called hormones directly into the blood stream

directly into the blood stream

These chemicals are secreted by

structures called glands

Each hormone will affect specific cells, called

their target cells.

Pituitary Gland

known as the “master gland”

Pituitary Gland function

controls other endocrine glands and regulates growth, metabolism, and reproduction through hormone secretion.

Hypothalamus function

links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland; regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms.

Thyroid Gland function

produces hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) that regulate metabolism, energy production, and growth

Parathyroid Glands function

regulates calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism

where are Adrenal Glands located

on the superior aspect of each kidney

adrenal glands function

produce hormones like cortisol (regulates metabolism and stress response), aldosterone (controls blood pressure), and adrenaline (fight or flight response

where is the Pancreas located

behind the stomach, the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon to regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels

where is the Pineal Gland located

the center of the brain, the pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Gonads for males

testes

gonads for females

ovaries

where are the gonads

in the pelvic region

what is the gonads function

produce sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone in females, testosterone in males) that regulate reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics.

Thymus location

in the upper chest, posterior to the sternum

the thymus function

produces thymosin, which is important for T-cell development and immune function.

Endocrine disorders are typically treated via

medical management through a physician, however, as many patients in the rehab setting will present with endocrine disorders which may impact their treatment

Type 1 Diabetes

The body doesn't produce insulin (usually inherited)

Type 2 Diabetes

The body doesn't use insulin properly or doesn’t produce enough (usually acquired)

Hyperthyroidism

a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism treatment focus

Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroidectomy

Hypothyroidism

a condition where the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone, slowing metabolism

Hyperglycemia is caused by

high blood sugar levels, often associated with diabetes.

Hyperglycemia treatment

Insulin administration, oral medications, and lifestyle management

Hypoglycemia is caused by 

by low blood sugar levels, which can cause symptoms of dizziness or fainting.

Hypoglycemia treatment

Quick intake of glucose or sugary foods, adjusting insulin dosage

Cushing’s Disease

a disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

Addison’s Disease

a disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol or aldosterone.

Addison’s Disease treatment

Hormone replacement therapy (corticosteroids) and managing electrolyte imbalances.

Hyperparathyroidism

characterized by overactivity of the parathyroid glands, leading to excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Hyperparathyroidism treatment

Surgery to remove overactive parathyroid tissue, medication to control calcium levels

Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by

underactivity of the parathyroid glands, leading to insufficient production of parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Hypoparathyroidism treatment

Calcium and vitamin D supplements to regulate calcium levels.

Hypogonadism (Male)

a condition where the testes produce insufficient amounts of testosterone.

Symptoms may include low libido, fatigue, muscle weakness, and infertility.

Hypogonadism (Male) treatment

Testosterone replacement therapy and addressing underlying causes.

Hypogonadism (Female)

a condition where the ovaries produce insufficient amounts of estrogen and progesterone.

Hypogonadism (Female)

Hormone replacement therapy, fertility treatments, and managing symptoms.