Homeostasis

Original Editor - [[User:Lucinda hampton|Lucinda hampton

Top Contributors - Lucinda hampton  

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Homeostasis, as defined thus "A self-regulating process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions"[1]. Our bodies various functions must operate in a narrow range of balance internally, a dynamic equilibrium, in spite of a changing external environment. Our individual cells require our body to maintain these conditions to prevent the death of our cells, tissues and organs. [2]The body achieves this dynamic homeostasis by regulating temperature, glucose, toxins, blood pressure and pH.

1024px-Homeostasis success or failure.png


Measures of homeostasis[edit | edit source]

Include:

  • Our vital signs (blood pressure, core body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation) give an indication of a possible homeostatic imbalance.
  • A basic metabolic panel can be done to show electrolyte disturbances.

When Homeostasis Fails[edit | edit source]

Homeostasis failure leads to many common disease processes. For example

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Fever

Resources[edit | edit source]

  • bulleted list
  • x

or

  1. numbered list
  2. x

References[edit | edit source]