Question

Describe the general structures and functions of the integumentary and skeletal systems and how they work together to maintain homeostasis.

Describe the types of problems that would occur if this body system could not maintain homeostasis.

Answer 1

The integumentary system consists of the skin, hair, nails, glands, and nerves. Its functions are to protect, regulate body temp, eliminates waste (sweat), detect sensations (touch/pain). The skeletal system consists of bone, joints and cartilage. It can play a crucial role in many functions such as support, movement, protection, blood cell production, calcium storage and endocrine regulation. If body temperature rises, blood vessels in the skin dilate, allowing more blood to flow near the skin’s surface. This allows heat to dissipate through the skin and into the surrounding air. The skin can produce sweat if the body gets too hot; when the sweat evaporates, it helps to cool the body. In addition, the skeletal system helps maintain homeostasis by producing new red blood cells as the old one dies off. In contrast, if our body is too cold, blood vessels in the skin contract, and blood flow to the extremities (arms and legs) slows. Muscles contract and relax rapidly, which generates heat to keep us warm. The hair on the skin rises, trapping more air, which is a good insulator, near our skin. These responses are responsible to decrease the body temperature

If one or more components of the body are no longer able to contribute to homeostasis then the normal balance is disrupted. A homeostasis imbalance could lead to a disorder, a disease, or even death. A disorder is characterized by an abnormality of structure or function. On the other hand, a disease is an illness characterized by a recognizable set of signs and symptoms.