Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology is the study of how diseases affect normal bodily functions. It combines knowledge of biology and disease processes to explain what happens in the body when someone is sick. For instance, in diabetes, the body either cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. This understanding helps healthcare professionals diagnose conditions, predict outcomes, and develop appropriate treatments. Essentially, pathophysiology connects the dots between health, disease, and the body's responses, providing insight into why illnesses occur and how they affect everyday life.