Body Fluids, Water-Salt & Acid Base Balance

These flashcards cover key concepts related to body fluids, water-salt balance, and acid-base balance, which are crucial for understanding physiological processes.

Body Fluids

The different types of fluids in the body including intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF).

Intracellular Fluid (ICF)

About 2/3 of the body’s fluid located within cells.

Extracellular Fluid (ECF)

The remaining 1/3 of body fluid, which includes plasma and interstitial fluid.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone that causes water reabsorption in the kidneys to regulate water balance.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

A hormonal system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

Electrolytes

Inorganic salts, acids, and bases that dissociate in solution to form ions.

Osmotic Pressure

The pressure exerted by the tendency for a solution to gain water by osmosis.

Acid-Base Balance

Regulation of hydrogen ion (H+) concentration in body fluids to maintain normal pH.

pH

A measure of acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

Acidosis

A condition where blood pH drops below 7.35.

Alkalosis

A condition where blood pH rises above 7.45.

Bicarbonate Buffer System

A major chemical buffer system which resists pH changes in body fluids.

Metabolic Acidosis

A condition caused by an excess of acids or loss of bicarbonate, resulting in a pH below 7.35.

Respiratory Compensation

Adjustments in respiratory rate to correct acid-base imbalances.

Kidney Function in Acid-Base Balance

The kidneys help regulate bicarbonate reabsorption and hydrogen ion secretion to maintain pH.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions despite changes in external environments.

Water Loss Mechanisms

Processes through which the body loses water, including urine, sweat, and respiration.

Sodium's Role in Fluid Balance

Sodium ions help control water retention and distribution in body fluids.