Maintaining water and nitrogen balance in the body

• What do cells require to function efficiently?


  A balanced concentration of water
• What can happen to cells if they lose or gain too much water?


  It can lead to cell damage
• What effect do hypotonic solutions have on cells?


  They can cause cells to swell and potentially burst
• What effect do hypertonic solutions have on cells?


  They can cause cells to shrink and lose function
• Through which two ways is water lost from the body?

  Lungs during exhalation and skin via sweat
• What does the loss of water, ions, and urea from the lungs and skin indicate?


  It cannot be regulated
• What role do kidneys play in maintaining water balance?


  They filter blood to remove excess water, ions, and urea
• What is selective reabsorption in the kidneys?


  It returns useful substances back into the bloodstream
• How is ammonia converted for safe excretion?


  It is converted to urea, a less toxic compound
• What is the role of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) in the kidneys?


  It controls the permeability of kidney tubules
• When is ADH released by the pituitary gland?


  When blood concentration is high (dehydrated state)
• What effect does ADH have on water reabsorption in the kidneys?


  It increases water reabsorption, helping to dilute blood plasma
• What is an example of negative feedback in homeostasis?


  The action of ADH in regulating water balance
• What are two treatments for individuals with kidney failure?


  Organ transplant and dialysis
• What is the purpose of dialysis?


  It artificially removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood
• How does ADH affect kidney tubule permeability?


  • Increases permeability
  • Enhances water reabsorption
  • Maintains water balance
• What principles should be understood regarding kidney dialysis?


  • Filtration principles
  • Waste removal processes
  • Mechanism of action
• What are the pros and cons of mechanical devices versus organ transplants for treating kidney failure?


  Pros of dialysis:

  • Non-invasive
  • Immediate treatment

  
  

  Cons of dialysis:

  • Time-consuming
  • Limited effectiveness

  
  

  Pros of transplants:

  • Restores normal function

  
  

  Cons of transplants:

  • Requires surgery
  • Risk of rejection