nevrohumoral
Nevrohumoral refers to a concept in medicine that combines the terms "neural" and "humoral," describing the interplay between the nervous system and the endocrine system. This interaction is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, the body's internal balance. The nervous system, through the autonomic nervous system, sends signals to the endocrine glands, stimulating them to release hormones. These hormones then travel through the bloodstream to target organs, where they exert their effects. This feedback loop allows for rapid, short-term responses to changes in the internal or external environment. For example, when a person is stressed, the sympathetic nervous system activates the adrenal glands to release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare the body for the "fight or flight" response. Conversely, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes relaxation and recovery. The nevrohumoral system is essential for various physiological processes, including metabolism, digestion, and immune function. Dysregulation of this system can lead to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and anxiety disorders. Understanding the nevrohumoral balance is fundamental in diagnosing and treating many medical conditions.