C1 & C7 Self Study

Flashcards covering key terminology and concepts related to advanced physiology and pathophysiology, specifically focused on health and disease, stress, and adaptation.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

A three-stage physiological response to stress developed by Hans Selye, consisting of the alarm, resistance, and exhaustion stages.

Alarm Stage

The initial stage of the stress response where the central nervous system is aroused and the body's defenses are mobilized (fight-or-flight).

Resistance Stage

The second stage of the stress response where the body attempts to adapt to the stressor and maintain homeostasis through various physiological mechanisms.

Exhaustion Stage

The final stage of the stress response occurring when the stressor is prolonged, leading to the depletion of resources and potential for 'diseases of adaptation' or organ failure.

Pathophysiology

The study of altered health or disordered physiological processes associated with disease or injury.

Epidemiology

The study of disease occurrence in human populations, aiming to explain the spread and risk factors for diseases.

Homeostasis

The purposeful maintenance of a stable internal environment by coordinated physiological processes.

Allostasis

Physiological changes that occur in response to perceived challenges to homeostasis.

Incidence

The number of new cases arising in a population at risk during a specified time.

Prevalence

The measure of existing disease in a population at a given point in time.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A chronic activation of the stress response as a result of experiencing a significant traumatic event.

Intrusion Symptoms

The occurrence of flashbacks during waking hours or nightmares in which the past traumatic event is relived in vivid and frightening detail.

Avoidance Symptoms

Emotional numbing and the active effort to avoid people, places, or situations that serve as reminders of the traumatic event.

Hyperarousal Symptoms

Manifestations of increased arousal such as hypervigilance, an exaggerated startle reflex, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.

Negative Cognition and Mood

Persistent negative emotional states, feelings of detachment from others, or an inability to remember key aspects of the traumatic event.

PTSD Diagnostic Criteria

A diagnosis requiring that symptoms of intrusion, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative cognition be present for more than 1 month.