What does pathophysiology study?

Pathophysiology is the study of the functional changes that occur in the body as a result of a disease or pathological condition. It focuses on how diseases affect normal physiological processes and the ways in which the body attempts to cope with or compensate for these changes. By understanding the effects of disease on normal physiology, healthcare professionals can better diagnose, treat, and manage various health conditions.

In contrast to the other options, which address different aspects of health and physiology, the emphasis on the effects of disease clearly distinguishes pathophysiology from topics such as healing processes, normal physiological functions, or physiological processes during exercise. Those areas relate to health and normal functioning rather than disease and dysfunction, which is where pathophysiology specifically provides insight.