Physiology
| Home |Chapter: HAP - Scope of Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology is the science that explains how the body works. While anatomy shows structures, physiology describes the functions of these structures.
PHYSIOLOGY
Physiology is the science that explains how
the body works. While anatomy shows structures, physiology describes the functions
of these structures.
It helps us understand:
- How
organs perform their roles
- How
different systems maintain homeostasis
- How
diseases disturb normal body functions
SCOPES AND TYPES OF PHYSIOLOGY
Physiology can be studied at different
levels of complexity:
Cell Physiology
- Study of
the functions of cells, which are the basic units of life.
- Includes
cellular respiration, nutrient transport, waste removal, and communication
between cells.
Organ Physiology
- Study of
the functions of specific organs, such as:
- Heart → pumping blood
- Lungs → gas exchange
- Kidneys → filtration of blood
Systemic Physiology
- Study of
the functioning of organ systems.
- Examples:
- Cardiovascular
physiology (blood
circulation)
- Respiratory
physiology
(breathing)
- Digestive
physiology (food
breakdown and absorption)
Pathological Physiology
- Study of
how diseases affect body functions.
- Important
for understanding symptoms and treatments.
SYSTEMS OF THE HUMAN BODY AND THEIR ORGANS
The human body consists of 11 major
organ systems, each performing specialized functions to maintain life.
Organ Systems and Major Components
|
System |
Main Organs/Parts |
Function Summary |
|
Integumentary System |
Skin, hair, nails, sweat & oil glands |
Protection, temperature regulation,
sensation |
|
Skeletal System |
Bones, joints, cartilage |
Support, movement, blood cell formation |
|
Muscular System |
Skeletal muscles |
Movement, posture, heat generation |
|
Endocrine System |
Hormone-producing glands (thyroid,
pituitary, adrenal, etc.) |
Chemical regulation of body functions |
|
Cardiovascular System |
Heart, blood, blood vessels |
Transport of oxygen, nutrients, hormones,
waste |
|
Lymphatic System |
Lymph nodes, lymph vessels, spleen,
thymus |
Immunity, fluid balance |
|
Respiratory System |
Nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi,
lungs |
Oxygen intake, carbon dioxide removal |
|
Digestive System |
Mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines,
liver, pancreas |
Digestion, absorption of nutrients |
|
Nervous System |
Brain, spinal cord, nerves, sense organs |
Control, coordination, response to
stimuli |
|
Urinary System |
Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra |
Removal of wastes, fluid &
electrolyte balance |
|
Reproductive System |
Gonads (ovaries/testes), uterus,
associated organs |
Reproduction, hormone production |
Each system depends on the others, and
together they maintain homeostasis, the stable internal environment
necessary for survival.
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