What is the hypothalamus?
The hypothalamus is a small part of the brain located at the bottom of the brain, near the pituitary gland. Despite its small size, it is extremely important and has a key role in controlling many cycles in the body. The hypothalamus consists of three parts:
1. Anterior region – consists of several nuclei which are primarily responsible for hormone secretion, frequently interacting with the pituitary gland.
2. Middle region – regulated appetite and triggered growth hormone production for body growth.
3. Posterior region – regulated body temperature by inducing shivering and regulating sweat secretion.
What does the hypothalamus do?
The hypothalamus maintains some functions:
• Controlling body temperature, heart rate, thirst, hunger, sleep patterns and blood pressure (homeostasis).
• Releasing some of the hormones which stimulate other hormones to be released throughout the body.
What are some of the common conditions affecting the hypothalamus?
Should the hypothalamus not work correctly, then this is known as hypothalamic dysfunction. This may result from:
• head injuries
• congenital abnormalities
• brain surgery
• tumours
• eating disorders
• genetic disorders
A condition caused by hypothalamic dysfunction is Prader-Willi syndrome, which is hereditary and caused by a hypothalamus that cannot recognize one as being full after food consumption. Thus, there is a persistent hunger and urge to eat. Individuals who have this syndrome have lower metabolisms and usually learning disabilities.
What are symptoms of conditions with the hypothalamus?
Symptoms showing hypothalamic dysfunction are:
• appetite changes
• weight loss or gain
• sleeping difficulty
• dehydration
• frequent urination
• body temperature fluctuations
• height or low blood pressure
• puberty delay
What can I do to have a healthy hypothalamus?
In order to have a healthy hypothalamus, it is essential to sleep well, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.