What Role Do Hormones Play in Hypertension?

Hormones are chemical substances which are produced in an organ (usually a gland) and are transported by the blood to another target organ where they excite their activities. Some of the hormones are transported through a duct to their target organs while others pass directly into the blood stream.

Hormones are produced in order to help perform certain specific function for the body, but when certain things go wrong with their production or their discharge process there could be problems. Some hormonal activities therefore have been known to contribute to the development of hypertension. Some of the hormones cause hypertension through their direct effect on blood vessels while others cause hypertension indirectly.

1. Pituitary hormone: The pituitary gland otherwise known as the master gland regulates the activities of other glands by producing hormones which act on these glands. One of such hormones is the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) which regulates the production of corticosteroids by the adrenal cortex. When there is a fault in the regulation process the corticosteroid could produce excess of its substances such as the mineralocorticocoids e.g. aldosterone which is known to retain sodium and subsequently fluid. Excessive retention of fluid by this hormone eventually leads to hypertension.

2. Thyroid hormone: The thyroid gland produces thyroxine which helps to regulate the body's metabolic processes. Over stimulation of the thyroid gland by the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) which is produced by the anterior pituitary gland leads to excessive secretion of thyroxine. This eventually brings about hyperthyroidism; and one of the known effects of hyperthyroidism is hypertension.

3. Adrenal hormone: Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a major hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla. It exerts action similar to that of the sympathetic nervous system. It causes vasoconstriction of the peripheral blood vessels. When there is a problem with the kidneys the regulation of this hormone is altered thereby bringing about its excess production. This in the long run leads to hypertension.