| Adrenaline (epinephrine) | |||||
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Arenaline is a neuro-hormone that is produced and secreted by the medulla (inner part) of the adrenal glands in direct response by nervous stimulation. It is also known as epinephrine. Adrenaline is not only a hormone, but it is also another one of the important neurotransmitters that is used by the nervous system to send messages to other nerves and also muscle tissue.
Adrenaline the hormone, is produced by the adrenal glands when the body is faced with a stressful (or even life-threatening) situation that causes them to either stand and fight or get away - this is called the "flight or flight" reaction, which is the way humans react when they are frightened.
Adrenaline causes blood pressure to rise, the heart to beat faster, increases metabolism and blood glucose levels, and increases energy production and blood flow to the extremeties.
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- Adrenaline is also known as epinephrine
- Adrenaline stimulates the body systems to prepare to "fight or flight", which is a well-known human preservation reaction to any dangerous situations
- Most cells of the body are affected by adrenaline (when it is stimulated to be produced)
- Adrenaline is a neurotransmitter of the adrenergic nervous system
- The amino acid tyrosine is a precursor which is necessary for the synthesis of adrenaline
- Cholesterol is also required to synthesize adrenaline
- Constant levels of stress can elevate adrenaline levels, which may not be advisable over the long term
- Exercise burns off excess adrenaline (as well as allowing muscles to reduce tension and stress, by providing an outlet for the release of excess energy)
- Adrenaline, in the short term, to deal with a dangerous or stressful situation is necessary and beneficial as it makes you feel more alert, awake and aware
- Adrenaline is a excitatory neurotransmitter involved with allertness and mental focus
- Adrenaline is the first line of treatment for severe anaphylaxis - a severe allergy
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People who have allergies (known or unknown) and experience anaphylaxis may especially require adrenaline to stay alive - in fact adrenaline is the recommended first line treatment in anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction the body can have to any substance either ingested or absorbed through the skin and happens in a severe and unexpected manner. Anaphylaxis causes the following symptoms:
- dizziness
- loss of consciousness
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the tongue and throat (airway obstruction)
- low blood pressure
- heart failure
Adrenaline is the recommended and first line of treatment for any severe allergic reaction - it is literally a life-saver.
For information about anaphylaxis, the Anaphylaxis Campaign in the UK is a useful site to view.
references
- Marieb EM, Hoehn K. Human Anatomy & Physiology. 7th edition, 2006. Benjamin Cummings Publishing
- Tortora GJ, Derrickson BH. Principles of Anatomy & Physiology. 11th edition, 2005. Wiley Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology & Allergy
- Allergy Capital - Adrenaline (Australia)
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
