RAW ADRENAL GLAND #42

The adrenal glands are a pair of triangular-shaped organs that rest on top of the kidneys.Each gland normally weights about 5 grams (slightly less than 1\5 ounce) and is made up of two parts: the cortex, or outer sections, which is responsible for the production of cortisone, and the medulla, or central section, which secretes adrenaline.

The adrenal cortex maintains the salt and water balance within the body, also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and the regulation of blood sugar levels.  The cortex affects the sex hormones, similar to that secreted by the testes.  Although this group is primarily responsible for male androgens, small quantities of female hormones are also present.  There is some evidence that the adrenal androgens play a controlling role for the female sex drive.

The adrenal medulla produces the hormone epinephrine, also called adrenaline, this is called upon when the body is under stress, in today's society this seems to be a major concern.  The hormone speeds up the rate of metabolism and produces other physiologic changes designed to help the body cope with danger.  Also the cortex affect carbohydrate metabolism, influencing the protein and fat metabolism.

The functioning ability of the adrenal glands is most often impaired as a results of the extensive use of cortisone therapy, used for diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and used in most anti-inflammatory drugs.  Adrenocortical failure can also be caused by pituitary disease and tuberculosis.  Poor nutritional habits, smoking, alcohol and drug abuse can contribute to adrenal failure.

The long term use of cortisone drugs causes the adrenals to shrink in size, and can result in a ''Cushinoid'' appearance.  Cushing's syndrome is a rare disorder caused by an over-active adrenal cortex.  Persons with Cushing's syndrome take on a characteristic appearance:  They generally are heavy in the abdomen and buttocks but have very thin limbs, and they have rounded ''moon'' faces.  Muscular weakness and wasting of muscles are also characteristic of this syndrome.  Round, red marks mimicking acne may appear on the face, and the eyelids may appear swollen.  An increased growth of body hair is common, and women may grow moustaches and beards.  People with Cushing's generally are more susceptible to illness and have trouble healing properly, Thinning of the skin is common, often leading to stretch marks and bruising.

ADRENAL GLAND SELF-TEST, normally systolic blood pressure (the first number when taking blood pressure measurement-120\80) is approximately10 points higher when you are standing than when you are lying down.  If the adrenals are not functioning properly, this may not be the case. 

Take and compare two blood pressure readings-one while lying down and one while standing.  First, lie down and rest for five minutes.  Then take your blood pressure.  Stand up and immediately take your reading again.  If it is lower when you stand up, suspect reduced adrenal function.  The degree to which the level drops upon standing is often proportionate to the degree of hypoadrenalism.