How does the pituitary gland control other glands in the body?
The hormones of the pituitary gland send signals to other endocrine glands to stimulate or inhibit their own hormone production. For example, the anterior pituitary lobe will release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to stimulate cortisol production in the adrenal glands when you’re stressed.
What is the pituitary gland and what does it do?
The pituitary gland is a small, bean-shaped gland situated at the base of your brain, somewhat behind your nose and between your ears. Despite its small size, the gland influences nearly every part of your body. The hormones it produces help regulate important functions, such as growth, blood pressure and reproduction.
How does pituitary gland produce hormone?
The posterior lobe produces two hormones, vasopressin and oxytocin. These hormones are released when the hypothalamus sends messages to the pituitary gland through nerve cells. Vasopressin is also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
How do you check pituitary gland?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or high-resolution computerized tomography (CT) of your brain can detect a pituitary tumor or other pituitary gland problems. Vision tests. These tests can determine if growth of a pituitary tumor has impaired your sight or visual fields.
Can pituitary gland heal itself?
The results, explains Vankelecom, show that the pituitary gland is capable of repairing itself – even in adults: “If the pituitary gland is damaged shortly after birth, recovery occurs swiftly because everything is still plastic.
How does the pituitary gland affect behavior?
In addition to messenger hormones, the pituitary also secretes growth hormone, endorphins for pain relief, and a number of key hormones that regulate fluid levels in the body. The gonads secrete sexual hormones, which are important in reproduction, and mediate both sexual motivation and behavior.
Can pituitary tumor cause personality changes?
Personality changes are also common when a pituitary tumour causes the pituitary gland to over- or under-produce hormones. This can affect your emotions and cause changes in your sex drive. Larger tumours can have a greater effect on personality, as they generally affect a greater area of the brain.