Salt Regulation – Excretory & Integumentary Systems

Salt Regulation

The process by which the body maintains proper sodium and electrolyte levels to support nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance.

Electrolyte Balance

The maintenance of correct concentrations of ions (like Na⁺, K⁺, and Cl⁻) in body fluids for normal cellular and physiological functions.

Excretory System (in salt regulation)

Filters the blood, removes excess salts through urine, and maintains electrolyte balance mainly through kidney function.

Integumentary System (in salt regulation)

Helps regulate salt levels through sweat production, which releases sodium and chloride ions along with water.

Osmoregulation

The control of water and solute (salt) balance in the body; closely linked to kidney function and hormone regulation.

Kidney

Primary organ for regulating salt levels by filtering blood and reabsorbing or excreting sodium and other electrolytes.

Nephron

Functional unit of the kidney where salts and water are reabsorbed or secreted to maintain electrolyte balance.

Sodium Reabsorption

The process by which sodium is reabsorbed from the nephron back into the bloodstream to maintain salt balance.

Potassium Secretion

The process by which potassium is secreted into the nephron for excretion to maintain electrolyte balance.

Aldosterone

Hormone produced by the adrenal glands that increases sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

Hormonal system that regulates blood pressure and salt balance by controlling sodium and water retention.

Sweat (in salt regulation)

Excretion of small amounts of salt and water through sweat glands to help maintain electrolyte balance.

Salt Depletion

Low levels of sodium in the body, which can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, or low blood pressure.

Salt Overload

Excess sodium in the body, which can increase blood pressure and strain the kidneys and cardiovascular system.

Interaction Between Systems

The excretory system controls internal salt levels via urine, while the integumentary system contributes to salt balance through sweat.