Topic: Human Disease Maintaining Homeostasis
When humans perspire, water, urea, and salts containing sodium are removed from
the blood. Drinking water during extended periods of physical exercise replenishes
the water but not the sodium. This increase in water dilutes the blood and may result
in the concentration of sodium dropping low enough to cause a condition known as
hyponatremia.
Symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, nausea, and lack of coordination. Left
untreated, it can lead to coma and even death. The body has a variety of feedback
mechanisms that assist in regulating water and sodium concentrations in the blood. The kidneys play a major role in
these mechanisms, as they filter the blood and produce urine.
1. Many runners pour water on their bodies during a race. Explain how this action helps to maintain homeostasis.
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2. How would running in a marathon on a warm day most likely affect urine production Support your answer.
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3. Many people today drink sport drinks containing large amounts of sodium. Describe one possible effect this might
have on a person who is not very active.
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