Respiratory and Endocrine Systems

Respiratory Rate

The number of breaths taken per minute, which can indicate respiratory health and various physiological states.

Breathing

process involving inhalation and exhalation of air. It is essential for gas exchange in the lungs.

Inhaling

the act of drawing air into the lungs through the nose or mouth, which is necessary for respiration and gas exchange.

Exhalation

the process of expelling air from the lungs, facilitating the removal of carbon dioxide and helping to maintain the body's acid-base balance.

Inspiration

the act of taking in air during the breathing process, specifically the phase when the diaphragm contracts and expands the thoracic cavity.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

a lifesaving technique used in emergencies when someone's heartbeat or breathing has stopped, combining chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore circulation and oxygenation. It is not necessary to use recue breaths in every circumstance but chest compressions should always be used. For every 30 chest compressions administer 2 rescue breaths. CPR is essential in emergency situations to revive individuals experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.

Contagious

A disease or infection that can be transmitted from one person to another, often through direct contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces.

Congestion

the buildup of excess mucus in the airways or nasal passages, often resulting in difficulty breathing, sinus pressure, or stuffiness. This condition can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants and is often associated with colds or sinusitis.

Inflamation

a biological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, and is part of the body's immune response. Inflammation occurs when the body's defense mechanism is activated to repair tissue and eliminate harmful agents.

Vaccine

A substance that stimulates the body's immune response to recognize and fight specific pathogens. Vaccines can prevent diseases by providing immunity without causing the disease itself. Vaccines can be made from weakened or inactivated forms of pathogens, parts of the pathogens, or even genetic material, and are a crucial tool in public health.

Immunity

the ability of the body to resist or defend against infection and disease, often through the action of antibodies and immune cells. Immunity can be acquired through natural exposure to pathogens or vaccination.

Hormone

a signaling molecule produced by glands in the endocrine system that regulates various physiological processes in the body, including growth, metabolism, and mood.

Metabolism

the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that convert food into energy and building blocks for growth. It encompasses catabolic and anabolic processes that maintain cell function and homeostasis.

Negative Feedback System

a control mechanism in biological systems where a change triggers a response that counteracts the initial change, helping to maintain homeostasis. This response helps stabilize physiological functions by reducing fluctuations in the system, ensuring balance and optimal functioning.

Homeostasis

the ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes. It involves various physiological processes that regulate temperature, pH, hydration, and other vital parameters. The process through which biological systems regulate their internal environment to ensure optimal functioning and stability.

Stimulus

any change in the environment that triggers a response in an organism, leading to physiological adjustments or behavioral reactions.

Hyposecretion

the inadequate release of hormones from an endocrine gland, leading to insufficient physiological responses and potential health issues.

Radioactive

elements that emit radiation, often used in medical applications and treatments. Isotopes used for imaging and therapy.

Electrolyte

a substance that dissociates into ions in solution, improving electrical conductivity and playing critical roles in physiological functions such as muscle contraction and nerve impulses.

Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI)

a device that delivers a specific amount of medication to the lungs in aerosol form, commonly used for asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Autoimmune Disease

a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.