Diuretics and Hormonal Regulation

A collection of flashcards that cover key terms and definitions related to diuretics, hormonal regulation, and associated medical conditions.

Hormones

Chemical signals secreted by the endocrine glands and transported through the bloodstream to target cells.

Endocrine System

A system composed of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions.

Negative Feedback Loop

A regulatory mechanism in which an increase in hormone levels inhibits further hormone release, maintaining homeostasis.

Adrenal Gland

An endocrine gland that produces hormones such as aldosterone and cortisol, affecting metabolism and blood pressure.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A hormone released from the anterior pituitary that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone that regulates blood osmolarity by promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Aldosterone

A hormone that increases sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys, raising blood volume.

Diuretics

Medications that promote the excretion of water and electrolytes through urine to manage conditions like hypertension.

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Diuretics that promote the excretion of sodium and water but retain potassium, used in heart failure patients.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

Hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production in response to low oxygen levels.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport.

Hyperkalemia

A condition of elevated serum potassium levels that can disrupt cardiac function.

Hypokalemia

A condition of low serum potassium levels, often resulting from diuretic use, leading to muscle weakness and arrhythmias.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that decreases blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake by cells.

Corticosteroids

Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, such as cortisol, which influence metabolism and immune response.

Insulin Deficiency

A condition in diabetes where insufficient insulin leads to elevated blood glucose levels.

Folic Acid Deficiency

A deficiency that impairs DNA synthesis and cell division, leading to anemia.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

A condition leading to megaloblastic anemia, caused by a lack of intrinsic factor or dietary sources of B12.