1. Health

Adrenal Gland

From , former About.com Guide

Updated April 21, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

The adrenal glands are small, triangle- or pyramid-shaped organs found near the top of each kidney. There are two adrenal glands -- one on each side of the body.

The adrenal glands produce a variety of hormones involved in stress reactions, blood pressure regulation, and the handling of vitamins and minerals.

Certain types of adrenal gland problems can cause an increase in hormone release, leading to elevated blood pressure, rapid heart beat, or high/low levels of minerals and/or nutrients.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.