Adrenal glands are two small, triangular glands that sit on top of your kidneys. Even though they look tiny, they are super powerful because they release hormones that control stress, metabolism, blood pressure, and even how your body reacts in emergencies. Simply said, they just keep your body balanced and ready for action.

Key Points You Need to Know

• Location: On top of both kidneys
• Parts:
  
  • Adrenal Cortex (outer layer): makes cortisol (stress + metabolism), aldosterone (blood pressure), and small amounts of sex hormones
  • Adrenal Medulla (inner layer): makes adrenaline and noradrenaline → your “fight or flight” hormones
• Functions of hormones in these glands:
  
  • Cortisol: helps manage stress, metabolism, and immunity
  • Aldosterone: balances salt, water, and blood pressure
  • Adrenaline/ Noradrenaline: give instant energy, increase heartbeat, prepare body for emergencies
  • Androgens: support growth and puberty changes
• Why is it important?: Without adrenal glands, your body can’t handle stress properly or maintain basic balance (like blood pressure and energy).