Lecture 21: Body Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

A series of flashcards covering key concepts related to body fluids, electrolytes, water balance, and acid-base balance.

Electrolytes

Ions dissolved in water that are essential for maintaining bodily functions.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment, requiring the balance of fluids and electrolytes.

Intracellular Fluid

Fluid found inside cells, containing about 63% of body water.

Extracellular Fluid

Fluid located outside of cells, containing about 37% of body water.

Hydrostatic Pressure

The pressure exerted by fluids in a system, often associated with blood pressure.

Osmotic Pressure

The pressure exerted by solutes in a solution, influencing the movement of water across cell membranes.

Water Balance

Condition where water intake equals water output, necessary for homeostasis.

Osmolarity

Total solute concentration in a body fluid.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

Hormone that regulates kidney water reabsorption, influencing urine concentration.

Dehydration

A condition characterized by an excess of fluid loss, resulting in tissue concentration.

Hyponatremia

Low sodium concentration in the blood, which can be caused by excessive fluid intake.

Acidosis

Condition characterized by a decrease in pH due to an increase in H+ ion concentration.

Alkalosis

Condition characterized by an increase in pH due to a decrease in H+ ion concentration.

Compensation

Physiological mechanisms that resist changes in pH to counteract acid-base imbalances.

Buffer Systems

Chemical systems that stabilize pH by neutralizing acids or bases.

Bicarbonate Buffer System

A major buffer system in the body, involving bicarbonate ions that help maintain pH.

Respiratory Mechanism

Body responses involving changes in breathing to regulate blood pH by controlling CO2 levels.

Renal Mechanism

Kidney processes that help regulate blood pH by excreting H+ ions.