References and Further Reading

What is Kidney?

The kidney in the human body is responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood to form urine. They lie on either side of the vertebral column, just below the rib cage. Kidneys are bean-shaped structures. Kidneys function a crucial role by regulating electrolyte balance, blood pressure, and red blood cell production. Each kidney contains millions of filtering units called nephrons, which help in the filtration process. Kidneys also help in the production of hormones that regulate blood pressure and control red blood cell production....

Kidney Diagram in Human Body

The simple kidney diagram in human body is given below:...

Kidney Anatomy Explained (Detailed Anatomy of the Kidney)

The kidneys are sophisticated organs that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Below, we delve into the anatomy of the kidney, highlighting the functions of its various parts:...

How These Structures Work Together (How Kidneys Work)

The kidney’s anatomy is designed to efficiently filter blood, remove waste, and regulate the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. Here’s how these structures work together to perform kidney functions:...

Kidney Structure (Understanding Kidney Structure)

The kidney structure includes three main regions – the outer cortex, the inner medulla with renal pyramids, and the renal pelvis at the hilum. Blood vessels, nerves, and urine-collecting structures enter and exit through the renal hilum. Within the kidney, over a million nephrons filter blood and produce urine....

Nephron Function and Structure

Nephrons are the functional units of the kidney. The nephron function by filtering blood and producing urine. Each nephron consists of a renal corpuscle, renal tubule, and associated blood vessels. It plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance and eliminating waste from the body....

Nephron Structure

The structure of the nephron consists of two parts which are:...

Functions of the Kidney (Role of Kidneys in Body Regulation)

The functions of kidney are as follows:...

Kidney Filtration Process

Filtration: Blood enters kidneys, where tiny clusters called glomeruli filter out waste and excess substances into nephrons. Reabsorption: Essential substances like glucose and electrolytes are reabsorbed back into the bloodstream from nephron tubules. Secretion: Some substances, like hydrogen ions and drugs, are actively secreted into nephron tubules to eliminate additional waste. Concentration: Remaining fluid becomes urine as water is reabsorbed, concentrating the urine to conserve water. Excretion: Concentrated urine is collected in the renal pelvis, then transported to the bladder and expelled from the body through urination....

Common Kidney Diseases

Polycystic Kidney Disease: Polycystic kidney sickness (PKD) is a hereditary disorder that causes cysts in the kidneys and different organs. These cysts can bring down the kidney’s capacity to filter liquid and waste from your blood. Lupus nephritis: It is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the kidneys caused by systemic lupus erythematous. This can lead to kidney failure. The specific reason for lupus nephritis is obscure and it can’t be restored. IgA nephropathy: It is also known as Berger’s disease which is a kidney disease that occurs when an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA) builds up in the kidneys. IgA is a protein made by the immune system to protect the body from foreign substances such as bacteria or viruses. Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the small channels in the kidneys (glomeruli). The excess liquid and waste that glomeruli eliminate from the circulation system leave the body as urine. Cystinosis: Caused due to the accumulation of amino acid called cystine. Excess cystine damages cells and forms crystals that can build up and cause problems in many organs and tissues. Diabetic nephropathy: It is a kidney disease resulting from the complications of type I and types II diabetes. Renal calculi (kidney stones):These are hard mineral deposits that are formed in the kidneys. They cause intense pain as they travel through the urinary tract. Drinking plenty of water and following a balanced diet can help prevent their formation....

Signs of Kidney Disease

Fatigue and Reduced Energy: A significant decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating. Anemia, which often accompanies kidney disease, can also contribute to tiredness. Sleep Disturbances: When the kidneys don’t filter properly, toxins remain in the blood instead of being excreted through urine. This can interfere with sleep. Additionally, sleep apnea is more common in individuals with chronic kidney disease. Dry and Itchy Skin: Healthy kidneys perform essential functions, including removing waste and maintaining mineral balance. Dry and itchy skin can indicate mineral and bone disease associated with advanced kidney disease. Increased Urination Frequency: Feeling the need to urinate more often, especially at night, can be a sign of kidney disease. Damaged kidney filters can cause this increased urge. Blood in Urine: Normally, healthy kidneys retain blood cells in the body while filtering waste to create urine. When kidney filters are damaged, blood cells may leak into the urine. Blood in the urine can also signal other conditions like tumors, kidney stones, or infections. Swelling in Ankles and Feet: Reduced kidney function can lead to sodium retention, causing swelling in the lower extremities. Swollen ankles and feet can also be associated with heart disease, liver disease, and chronic leg vein issues. Poor Appetite: Kidney disease can affect appetite. If you notice a significant decrease in hunger, it’s essential to consider kidney health....

Kidney Failure Symptoms and Causes

Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. This condition can develop gradually over time (chronic kidney failure) or suddenly (acute kidney failure). Causes of kidney failure include underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney diseases, as well as certain medications and toxins....

Kidney Stones: Causes and Prevention

Causes:...

Diabetic Nephropathy: Kidney Diabetes Impact

Diabetic nephropathy, a serious complication of diabetes, affects the kidneys’ ability to perform their usual filtering functions. It’s a leading cause of kidney disease in adults and can progress to end-stage renal disease if not managed properly....

Recent Advances in Kidney Research

The field of nephrology is continuously evolving, with new studies shedding light on the intricate processes of kidney function, disease mechanisms, and innovative treatments. Below are summaries of recent significant findings:...

Advancements In The Treatment of Kidney Diseases

In the evolving landscape of nephrology, recent innovations in treatment strategies are significantly altering the approach to kidney disease management, promising improved outcomes for patients. This section highlights some of the most promising advancements in the treatment of kidney diseases and how they are poised to transform patient care....

References and Further Reading

Below are the citations and links to studies that provide further insights into the latest research findings on kidney health, diseases, and treatments. These sources offer detailed information for those interested in exploring the subject matter more deeply....

Trustworthy Medical Sources for Kidney Anatomy and Functions

Source Description Website Cleveland Clinic Offers detailed insights into kidney location, anatomy, function, and health. Visit Cleveland Clinic NIDDK Provides comprehensive information on how kidneys work and their importance. Visit NIDDK Medical News Today Covers kidney location, function, anatomy, and related health topics. Visit Medical News Today Johns Hopkins Medicine Discusses the anatomy of the urinary system, including the kidneys’ role. Visit Johns Hopkins Medicine Verywell Health Offers insights into kidney anatomy, location, and function, using high-quality sources for information verification. Visit Verywell Health...

Case Studies on Kidney Health

Case Study 1: Managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Through Diet and Medication...

Preventive Measures for Maintaining Kidney Health

Maintaining kidney health is crucial for overall well-being. Here are some effective preventive measures:...

Management Strategies for Chronic Kidney Diseases (CKD)

Managing CKD involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, medications, and possibly dialysis. Here are key strategies:...

Conclusion – Kidney Health

In conclusion, the kidneys functions as vital organs in the human excretory system. Kidney structure includes the renal cortex, medulla, and renal pelvis, each contributing to the filtration of blood and production of urine. By maintaining fluid balance and filtering minerals and waste from the blood, kidneys play a crucial role in overall health. This article has explored the anatomy of kidney, kidney function, and various kidney-related disorders, highlighting the importance of kidney health and the significance of understanding renal structure and function....

Kidney Health – FAQs

What is CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)?...