Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Concepts

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

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.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that reduces function in response to a stimulus, promoting homeostasis.

Positive Feedback

A mechanism that increases function in response to a stimulus, often leading to a significant change like childbirth.

Stress

A state manifested by a specific syndrome of the body developed in response to any stimuli that create an intense systemic demand.

Allostasis

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

Coping Mechanisms

Emotional and behavioral responses used to manage threats to physiological and psychological homeostasis.

Acute Stress

Stress response intended to be short-term, associated with 'fight-or-flight' reactions.

Chronic Stress

Prolonged activation of the stress response that can lead to various health disorders.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A syndrome resulting from chronic activation of the stress response due to significant traumatic events.

Risk Factors

Conditions suspected of contributing to the development of a disease or disorder, which can be modifiable or nonmodifiable.

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.

Determinants of Health

Factors that affect health outcomes, including socioeconomic status, education, and healthcare access.

Clinical Manifestations

Signs and symptoms that describe the structural and functional changes accompanying a disease.