Word parts
home/o same-stasis standing still, staying the same
What it means
The balance the body keeps even when the world around it changes. Sensors notice a change, and the body responds to bring things back to normal: when it is too hot, the skin sweats; when blood sugar rises, the pancreas releases insulin. Many illnesses are a loss of homeostasis, such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances or a body temperature that will not stay normal.
At a glance
| Spanish | homeostasis |
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Related terms
electrolyte
A mineral that carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride.
glucose
A simple sugar that is the body's main source of energy.
hypothalamus
A small area at the base of the brain that controls body temperature, hunger, thirst, sleep and many hormones.
hypothermia
A body temperature that has fallen below the normal range.