What is the Difference Between Physiology and Medicine?

Both physiology and medicine deal with the human body, although there may be a few differences between the terms physiology and medicine. Physiology deals with the many processes that are normally going on in the body. It describes the important functions of the cells, tissues, and organ systems in relation to a healthy body. Medicine, on the other hand, is all about the diagnosing and healing or treating of diseases the human body is prone to suffer in a lifetime. Prevention of diseases and maintenance of health is also part of medicine.

In physiology, the nine systems of the body are studied. Among these organ systems are the cardiovascular system, digestive system, urinary system, and the male and female reproductive systems. In order to learn about physiology, one must also know the basics of anatomy and biochemistry. Anatomy is the science that identifies the parts of the human body, down to the layers of the skin, the types and shapes of bones, and the four chambers of the heart, among many others. It is in anatomy where the parts of the brain are cut open in order to see the sections contained within. Adequate knowledge about anatomy, usually makes it easier to understand physiology.

Biochemistry focuses on the biochemical processes that continuously occur inside the body for proper functioning. It explains these processes down to the cellular level. One example of an area of study within biochemistry is how the body breaks down carbohydrates present in foods and use them as fuels for the muscles, brain, and heart.

In the study of medicine, physiology plays a very important role. Before a physician can diagnose and treat diseases, he must first master the different processes normally going on inside the body. Armed with this information, physicians can usually pinpoint when something abnormal occurs. Aside from physiology, he also needs to become adept at anatomy, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology, among many other health sciences. Pathology is studying and diagnosing diseases by examination of body tissues, and pharmacology deals with drugs and their actions in the body.

The study of physiology and medicine often create awareness about the many wonders and capabilities of the human body. People are also being informed about diseases as well as their treatments and preventions. Nations from all over world often focus on health issues and their impact in the economy. These are usually made possible with ongoing researches in various branches of science, such as physiology and medicine.