Where Is the Adrenal Gland Located?

The adrenal glands sit on top of each kidney producing stress hormones called corticosteroids. There are two parts of the adrenal and each produces different substances that affect heart rate, salt levels and blood pressure. Overactive adrenals can lead to adrenal exhaustion.

Identification

• Each gland is located directly on top of a kidney. The inner part of the adrenal gland is called the medulla. The outer part is called the cortex.

Size

• An adrenal gland is about 3 inches long and 1/2-inch wide. Each one cups the kidneys.

Function

• The medulla produces adrenaline in the form of epinephrine to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure. The cortex produces hormones such as corticosteroids that are similar to cortisol and mineralocorticoids. These affect blood pressure and the body's salt and potassium levels.

Significance

• The medulla produces epinephrine if the body has a low level of glucose or in response to exercise or stress. Epinephrine breaks down glycogen stored in the liver. When norapinephrine is produced, it narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure.

Benefits

• The adrenal glands perform several functions. In response to exercise, epinephrine allows glycogen to be used and fatty acids to be released from fat tissue in the body as a source of energy. This is why after exercising, it is a good idea to eat protein to replenish glycogen stores.