Page 9 - Health & Physical edu- 8

c. Thyroid Gland

This gland is situated both in the right and the left side of the anterior part of the
neck. They are two in number, one in each side. This produces the hormone named
thyroxine. It also produces calcitonin. The size of this gland may grow abnormally
in case of lack of iodine. This case is called goiter.

d. Parathyroid Gland

Parathyroid gland remains at the back of thyroid gland and four in number. It

produces the hormone called parathormone. It strengthens the bones by balancing
the level of calcium and phosphorous. In case of lack of this hormone, the disease
called muscle tetany (the abnormal contraction of muscles) may take place. If this
hormone is produced in excess, stone may be formed in the ureter and may result in
unnatural growth of bones.

e. Thymus Gland

Thymus gland grows until adulthood and becomes thinner along with ageing. This
gland is located at the back of sternum in the chest. Its weight remains almost 10
grams in childhood, 35-40 grams in adulthood and 15 grams in old age. It secretes the
hormone called thymosin. The main function of this gland is to produce lymphocytes.
The lymphocytes produce antibody and increases immunity.

f. Adrenal Gland

Adrenal gland remains at the top of each kidney. It produces the hormone corticoids
at the outer layer. If this hormone is produced in excess, then symptoms such as
increment of sugar level in blood, dehydration and continuous weight loss may be
noticed. The inner part of this gland, medulla, secretes the hormone adrenaline.
The main function of this is to increase the rate of heart beat, blood pressure, and
blood circulation in muscles.

g. Pancreas

Pancreas is situated at the back of the stomach. This gland is also known as a mix
gland. While producing digestive hormone, this gland functions as an exocrine gland.

It functions as an endocrine gland while producing glucagone and insulin. Insulin
balances the glucose level in the blood. If the glucose level rises, more glucose can
be seen in urine. This disease condition is known as diabetes.
Health & Physical Education, Class-8 5