Endocrine System
What is the endocrine system?
The endocrine system is a collection of glands which has the primary purpose of secreting chemicals into the body known as hormones into the blood stream. The secreted hormones allow for the maintenance of homeostasis.
The endocrine system is a collection of glands which has the primary purpose of secreting chemicals into the body known as hormones into the blood stream. The secreted hormones allow for the maintenance of homeostasis.
Although Alexander Disease does not directly affect the endocrine system, there are several symptoms resulting from Alexander Disease which indirectly has a negative impact upon the endocrine system. Of these symptoms, stress is a major factor which impacts upon the endocrine system.
Stress
Firstly, it is important to note that there is a difference between stress which most people feel under pressure, and chronic stress. Stress which regular people feel often times may have positive results, as it increases your adrenaline. Stress is essentially the body’s response to a challenge, and due to the increased adrenaline, the individual may enjoy the benefit of a temporary enhanced physical and mental well-being. However, the type of stress referred to in context of Alexander Disease is called chronic stress. Chronic stress refers to the body’s response to a ‘challenge’ or emotional pressure which has affected the individual for prolonged periods of time. Alexander Disease patients typically suffer from chronic stress due to the emotional hardship which the patients must go through.
Chronic stress results in the endocrine system’s response in which a hormone known as corticosteroid (used in stress response as well as other activities including metabolism and controlling behavior) is released. Individuals suffering from chronic stress are subject to symptoms such as headaches, depression, insomnia, hypertension, and hemorrhoids (rectal bleeding). Although chronic stress is generally treated through both physical and mental lifestyle changes, patients suffering from Alexander Disease may not be able to receive physical treatment and may have to opt for mental therapies such as meditation. (17)