Where is it and what does it do? The thyroid is a small, butterfly shaped gland that weighs less than 1oz. When functioning normally, it perches unobtrusively with its wings wrapped around the front of the windpipe (trachea), below the voice box (larynx) . It’s slight size could fool you into underestimating the thyroid’s importance to your health. This tiny …
So What Does My Pancreas Do?
Where is it and what does it do? The pancreas is a 5-6 inch, leaf-shaped gland situated behind part of the stomach and extending downwards towards the spleen and left kidney. It has two primary functions. The first function is to produce and secrete digestive enzymes that break down proteins, fat and carbohydrates in the small intestine. Secondly, it releases …
So What Does My Lymphatic System Do?
Where is it and what does it do? At any given moment throughout life, our body is exposed to a large number of damaging influences such as radiation, toxins, and microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. A further danger is posed by diseased or deformed cells of the body itself. To combat these influences, the body has defense systems designed …
So What Does My Liver Do?
Where is it and what does it do? The liver is one of the largest organs of the body and weighs about 4lbs. It is located in the upper right abdomen and is completely covered by the ribs. It is the only organ that can regenerate if damaged or if partly removed (up to 25%). One of the most important …
So What Do My Kidneys Do?
Where are they and what do they do? The two kidneys are located in the lumbar region, on either side of the spinal column protected by the lower ribs. Each kidney is 4 to 4.5 inches long, 1 to 1.5 inches thick, 2 to 2.25 inches wide and weighs 4 to 10.5oz. The right kidney is positioned a little lower …
So What Does My Gallbladder Do?
Where is it and what does it do? The gallbladder is a 3-4 inch pear-shaped organ located on the right side of the body, directly under the liver. The primary function of the gallbladder is to store and release bile Bile contains cholesterol, bile salts, lecithin and other substances. The bile emulsifies (disperses into smaller globules) fats so that they …
So What Do My Adrenal Glands Do?
Where are they and what do they do? The adrenal glands are a pair of triangular-shaped organs that rest on top of the kidneys. They normally weigh about 5g each and have two parts. The cortex or outer section is responsible for the production of the hormones cortisone, cortisol, aldosterone, androstenedione, and dehydrepiandrosterone (DHEA). The medulla or central section secretes …