Question

Emergency hormone and hormones of fight are (a) Adrenalin (b) Noradrenaline (c) Cortisol (d) Both (a) and (b)

Short answer

The correct answer is (d) Both (a) and (b).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the hormones

Adrenalin and Noradrenaline are hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress situations. They prepare the body for the 'fight or flight' response, inducing rapid heartbeat, increased blood flow to muscles, increased output of the heart, and elevated glucose levels to provide energy, therefore, qualifying as 'emergency' and 'fight' hormones.

Analyze the other option

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland. While it is associated with stress responses, it's not typically referred to as an 'emergency' or 'fight' hormone. Its primary functions include reducing inflammation, regulating metabolism, and controlling the body's salt and water balance.

Choose the correct answer

Hence, looking at the definitions of the hormones and their roles, the emergency and fight hormones are Adrenalin and Noradrenaline.

Key concepts

Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney. They play a crucial role in producing hormones essential for the body's response to stress.
The adrenal gland is divided into two main parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. Each part is responsible for producing different hormones.

• The adrenal cortex produces corticosteroids, including cortisol, which helps regulate metabolism and the immune response.
• The adrenal medulla produces catecholamines, including adrenalin and noradrenaline, which are critical for the fight or flight response.

The adrenal glands' ability to produce various hormones shows their importance in maintaining balance and preparing the body for stressful situations.

Fight or Flight Response

The fight or flight response is an automatic physiological reaction to a perceived threat or stress.
It prepares the body to either confront the perceived threat (fight) or flee from it (flight). This response is activated by the sympathetic nervous system and orchestrated by the adrenal medulla.
When a person faces a stressful situation, the adrenal medulla releases adrenalin and noradrenaline. These hormones lead to several physiological changes:

• Increased heart rate, allowing more blood to be pumped around the body.
• Dilation of airways for better oxygen intake.
• Elevated blood glucose levels for an energy release.
• Heightened senses and alertness.

This combination of responses ensures that the body is ready to either face the threat or escape it effectively.

Hormone Functions

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by different glands in the body. They play essential roles in regulating various physiological processes and maintaining homeostasis.
The adrenal glands produce several key hormones:

• Adrenalin: Often referred to as the 'emergency hormone', it increases heart rate, expands airways, and boosts energy supplies during stressful situations.
• Noradrenaline: Works closely with adrenalin, helping to increase blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
• Cortisol: Involved in stress response but mainly functions to regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and control salt and water levels.

Each hormone has a distinct role, but they often work together, especially adrenalin and noradrenaline, during emergencies.
Understanding the function of these hormones can shed light on how the body responds, adapts, and maintains balance under stress.