Health Education: The Kidney

The Kidney

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. They are vital for filtering blood, removing waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure.

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Structure of the Kidney

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📌 Cortex: the outer region containing filtering units (nephrons)
📌 Medulla: the inner part made up of renal pyramids.
📌 Renal pelvis: central area that collects urine before it flows into the ureter.
📌 Ureter: a tube that carries urine from each kidney to the bladder.
📌 Nephron: the microscopic functional unit responsible for filtration.

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Functions Of The Kidney

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📌 Filters blood: removes waste products like urea, creatinine, and excess salts.
📌 Regulates fluid and electrolyte balance: controls sodium, potassium, calcium, etc.
📌 Maintains acid–base balance: keeps blood pH stable.
📌 Regulates blood pressure - via renin: angiotensin system.
📌 Produces hormones: like erythropoietin (stimulates red blood cell production).
📌 Activates vitamin D: for healthy bones.

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Common Kidney Conditions

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📌 Kidney stones: hard mineral deposits causing severe pain and obstruction.
📌 Urinary tract infections (UTIs): infections that may reach the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
📌 Chronic kidney disease (CKD): progressive loss of kidney function.
📌 Acute kidney injury (AKI): sudden decline in function.
📌 Polycystic kidney disease: genetic disorder with fluid-filled cysts.
📌 Glomerulonephritis: inflammation of the filtering units.

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Tests to Assess Kidney Function

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📌 Urinalysis: checks for protein, blood, or infection.
📌 Blood tests: urea, creatinine, eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate).
📌 Ultrasound or CT scan: to view kidney structure.
📌 Biopsy: in some cases for diagnosing disease at the tissue level.

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Kidney Health Tips

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📌 Stay hydrated, water helps flush toxins.
📌 Limit salt and processed foods.
📌 Control blood pressure and blood sugar.
📌 Avoid overuse of painkillers (NSAIDs).