Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a hormone and neurotransmitter released by the adrenal glands. It plays a critical role in the body’s fight-or-flight response, preparing the body for rapid action during stress. Adrenaline elevates heart rate, widens airways, and enhances energy availability, supporting quick and effective survival responses.
Testing for adrenaline levels can be beneficial for individuals experiencing symptoms of adrenal gland disorders, such as adrenal insufficiency or pheochromocytoma (a type of tumor that can increase adrenaline production). It’s also useful for those with unexplained symptoms like sudden blood pressure changes, heart palpitations, or severe anxiety, which might be linked to adrenaline secretion abnormalities.
The experience of adrenaline release is often described as a ‘rush’ due to its sudden and intense nature. These effects are typically short-lived, subsiding as the hormone levels return to normal.