Author Question: How is fluid balance maintained in the body? ... (Read 64 times)

PhilipSeeMore

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 561
How is fluid balance maintained in the body?

Question 2

What is hypokalemia, and how does it occur?



InfiniteSteez

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 340
Answer to Question 1

Fluid balance is highly regulated and dependent on several essential mineralssodium and chloride ions in extracellular fluid, and potassium and phosphate ions in intracellular fluid. To maintain the right balance of ions, cells make frequent adjustments by moving electrolytes into or out of cells. Plasma proteins (albumin) help maintain healthy fluid distribution between intravascular and interstitial compartments.

Answer to Question 2

Hypokalemia or low blood potassium is not common, but can occur with prolonged diarrhea and/or vomiting (illness or eating disorder) or use of potassium-depleting diuretics. Signs and symptoms include muscle weakness, constipation, irritability, confusion, and (some studies suggest) insulin resistance. Hypokalemia can be very serious and cause irregular heart function, muscular paralysis, decreased blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question

PhilipSeeMore

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 561
Thank you!



InfiniteSteez

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 340
Always glad to help...



 

Did you know?

There are major differences in the metabolism of morphine and the illegal drug heroin. Morphine mostly produces its CNS effects through m-receptors, and at k- and d-receptors. Heroin has a slight affinity for opiate receptors. Most of its actions are due to metabolism to active metabolites (6-acetylmorphine, morphine, and morphine-6-glucuronide).

Did you know?

There are over 65,000 known species of protozoa. About 10,000 species are parasitic.

Did you know?

Hypertension is a silent killer because it is deadly and has no significant early symptoms. The danger from hypertension is the extra load on the heart, which can lead to hypertensive heart disease and kidney damage. This occurs without any major symptoms until the high blood pressure becomes extreme. Regular blood pressure checks are an important method of catching hypertension before it can kill you.

Did you know?

More than nineteen million Americans carry the factor V gene that causes blood clots, pulmonary embolism, and heart disease.

Did you know?

Your heart beats over 36 million times a year.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library