Corrective Responses to a Decrease in Body Temperature

Introduction

• The human body has mechanisms to counteract a drop in body temperature and maintain a stable internal temperature.
• Corrective responses play a vital role in regulating body temperature when it decreases.

Vasoconstriction

• Vasoconstriction is a process where blood vessels narrow, reducing blood flow to the skin.
• This mechanism helps conserve heat within the body by minimising heat loss through the skin.

Hair Erector Muscles Contract

• Another response to decreased body temperature involves the contraction of hair erector muscles.
• When these muscles contract, hairs on the skin stand on end, creating an insulating layer of warmer air next to the skin.
• This insulation helps retain body heat.

Shivering

• Shivering is a muscle response to cold temperatures.
• Skeletal muscles throughout the body contract and relax repeatedly, generating heat as a byproduct.
• This muscle activity helps raise body temperature.

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Corrective Responses to a Decrease in Body Temperature

Summary

• The body employs various corrective responses to counteract a decrease in body temperature.
• Vasoconstriction reduces blood flow to the skin, conserving heat.
• Contraction of hair erector muscles creates an insulating layer of warm air.
• Shivering generates heat through muscle activity, helping restore a stable internal temperature.