The adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal glands and is responsible for producing catecholamines, the hormones that are released in our “fight or flight” response.The adrenal cortex is the outer part of the adrenal glands and is responsible for producing hormones that are vital for life including cortisol and aldosterone (that helps regulate blood pressure and salt levels).The adrenal glands are made up of two parts, the cortex and the medulla, and each is responsible for producing different hormones. They are best known for producing the hormones that govern our stress response, but they also have an important role to play in metabolism, immune function, and regulation of blood pressure. The adrenal glands are two triangular-shaped glands that sit on top of the kidneys. What are the adrenal glands and what do they do? What can go wrong with the adrenal glands?.What are the adrenal glands and what do they do?.

We look at them in more detail, including why your doctor may be unlikely to diagnose you with adrenal fatigue. A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.The adrenal glands are responsible for the hormones that govern your stress response – fight or flight. You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). To learn more about Addison’s disease and adrenal insufficiency, visit the Australian Addison’s Disease Association. Hormones Australia offers support and resources about the adrenal glands and conditions that affect them. The main treatment for Conn syndrome is surgery to remove your affected adrenal gland. In Conn syndrome, the excess aldosterone is made by a benign (non-cancerous) tumour in one of the adrenal glands. Conn syndromeĬonn syndrome is the most common cause of ‘primary aldosteronism’ - where there is too much of the hormone aldosterone. It’s also called primary adrenal insufficiency.Ĭongenital adrenal hyperplasia is an inherited condition that is usually found in babies and children.

Addison’s diseaseĪddison’s disease is a rare condition where your adrenal glands don’t make enough cortisol and aldosterone. It can sometimes be caused by a tumour in your adrenal gland. This causes a range of symptoms, such as:Ĭushing syndrome is usually caused by taking corticosteroid medicine for a long time. Some conditions that can affect the adrenal glands are:Ĭushing syndrome is when your body has too much cortisol. What medical conditions are related to my adrenal glands? The adrenal glands also make a hormone called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and small amounts of testosterone.

helping to control your blood pressure and heart rateĪldosterone also plays a part in controlling blood pressure and helps keep your salt and water levels balanced.

influencing your metabolism (how your body uses energy).

What hormone does adrenal gland produce