Understanding the Adrenal Glands
Answers to common questions about understanding the adrenal glands.
Questions on this page
What are the adrenal glands?
The adrenal glands are two small glands located above the kidneys. They produce several important hormones, including:
- Cortisol
- Aldosterone
- Adrenal androgens
- Adrenaline and noradrenaline
What does cortisol do?
Cortisol helps the body respond to stress and plays an important role in:
- Blood glucose regulation
- Blood pressure
- Metabolism
- Immune function
- Maintaining the body's response to illness and injury
Is cortisol always bad?
No. Cortisol is essential for life.
Problems occur when the body produces too little or too much cortisol, or when corticosteroid medicines alter the body's normal cortisol system.
What is aldosterone?
Aldosterone helps regulate:
- Blood pressure
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Fluid balance
Excess aldosterone can cause or worsen hypertension.