Homeostasis

Descriptive Essay # 104371

Biology > Zoology
Chemistry > Biochemistry

Homeostasis

A detailed presentation of homeostasis, a dynamic process in the human body that balances fluids and electrolytes.

3,295 words () | 5 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that disorders of homeostasis, fluid, and electrolyte balance occur in every setting, with every disorder, and with a variety of changes that affect healthy people. The paper also describes body fluids and electrolytes and the process of regulation of body fluid through osmosis. In addition, the paper discusses issues of homeostasis in the kidneys, skin, lungs, and the gastrointestinal tract.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Body Fluids
Electrolytes
Regulation of Body Fluid Through Osmosis
Diffusion
Diffusion
Filtration
Sodium-Potassium Pump
Electrolyte Balance
Kidneys
Skin
Lungs
Gastrointestinal Tract
Laboratory Tests for Evaluating Fluid Status:
Osmolality
Osmolarity
Homeostatic Mechanisms
Kidney Functions
Heart and Blood Vessel Functions
Lung Functions
Pituitary Functions
Adrenal Functions
Parathyroid Functions
Baroreceptors
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System
Antidiuretic Hormone and Thirst
Osmoreceptors

From the Paper:

"The hypothalamus manufactures ADH, which is stored in the posterior pituitary gland and released as needed. ADH is sometimes called the water-conserving hormone because it causes the body to retain water. Functions of ADH include maintaining the osmotic pressure of the cells by controlling the retention or excretion of water by the kidneys and by regulating blood volume.