Question

2. Describe the physiological response to a reduced total body Na+ content (salt depletion). Include in your answer the roles of hormones, nerves and pressure natriuresis/diuresis.

Please give a detailed answer. Add supportive equation if possible.

Answer 1

When there is reduced body sodium, then-

1. Aldosterone is secreted form adrenal cortex. By renin angiotensin system, the aldosterone is released. Aldosterone is a called as life saving hormone. It increases reabsorption of sodium from renal tubules and thus maintains optimum sodium level in body. It also excrete potassium from tubules.

2. In order to reduce excretion of sodium from body, water must be conserved. Because movement of water and sodium goes side by side. So whenever there is excessive excretion of sodium from body or reduced sodium in body, then level posterior pituitary increases secretion of ADH. Anti diuretic hormone acts on DCT to reabsorb water. As the water is reabsorbed, the sodium also follows water path and thus sodium can be conserved in body.