Question

Describe the functions of hypothalamic hormones.

Answer 1

HYPOTHALAMIC HORMONES

OR

Brainy Hormones

Known as the body’s messengers, hormones affect the way the body feels and functions, and are produced by many different parts of the body. The hypothalamus, a part of the brain, is responsible for many hormones. Understanding these "brainy hormones" will help you take control of your body and your health.

The hypothalamus produces hormones that control the production of hormones in the pituitary gland. These two parts of the body work together to tell the other endocrine glands when it is time to release the hormones they are designed to make. Because of this, hypothalamus function is directly related to overall hormone health. If the hypothalamus is damaged due to traumatic brain injury or genetic factors, overall hormonal health will suffer.

Hormones Secreted by the Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus produces seven different hormones:

Anti-Diuretic Hormones — The hormones that regulate water levels in the body, including blood volume and blood pressure

Oxytocin — A hormone that controls some human behaviors and the reproductive system.

Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone — Controls the body's response to physical and emotional stress, and is responsible for suppressing the appetite and stimulating anxiety.

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone — Stimulates the release of hormones connected to reproductive function, puberty and sexual maturation.

Somatostatin — Inhibits growth and thyroid-stimulating hormones.

Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone — Controls growth and physical development in children as well as metabolism in adults.

Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone — Stimulates production of the thyroid hormone, which in turn controls the cardiovascular system, brain development, muscle control, digestive health and metabolism.

Symptoms of Problems with the Hypothalamus

Each of these hormones must be in careful balance in order for the body to function properly. Too much or too little of any of these will affect the body's health and well-being. For example, too much of the anti-diuretic hormone can lead to water retention, while levels that are too low can cause dehydration or a drop in blood pressure.

The corticotropin-releasing hormone can lead to problems with acne, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, infertility and muscle problems if the body has too much of it. Low levels can cause weight loss, increased skin pigmentation, gastrointestinal distress and low blood pressure.

Answer 2

Answer:

• The hypothalamus functions as a type of thermostat for the body. It sets a desired body temperature, and stimulates either heat production and retention to raise the blood temperature to a higher setting or sweating and vasodilation to cool the blood to a lower temperature
• The hypothalamus plays a significant role in the endocrine system. It is responsible for maintaining your body's internal balance, which is known as homeostasis. To do this, the hypothalamus helps stimulate or inhibit many of your body's key processes, including: Heart rate and blood pressure