Your Comprehensive Guide to Kidney Health
The kidneys are vital organs that work tirelessly to filter waste, balance fluids, and regulate key bodily functions. This guide translates complex medical information into an easy-to-navigate resource, empowering you to understand, protect, and manage your kidney health.
How Your Kidneys Work
The Body's Master Filter
Your kidneys are a sophisticated filtering system. Each day, they process about 150 quarts of blood to remove around 2 quarts of waste products and excess fluid. This process is crucial for maintaining overall health.
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Blood Filtration
Removes waste like urea and creatinine from your blood.
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Fluid & Electrolyte Balance
Regulates levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium to ensure nerves and muscles function correctly.
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Hormone Production
Produces hormones that help control blood pressure, make red blood cells, and keep bones strong.
Common Kidney Conditions
Risk Factors & Prevention
Understanding and managing risk factors is the most powerful way to protect your kidneys. Explore the key areas below.
Diabetes
The leading cause of kidney disease. High blood sugar damages kidney filters over time.
High Blood Pressure
The second leading cause. It puts excess stress on blood vessels in the kidneys.
Diet & Hydration
High sodium and sugar intake, along with poor hydration, can harm kidneys.
Obesity
Increases the risk of diabetes and hypertension, and puts direct stress on kidneys.
Smoking & Alcohol
Smoking damages blood vessels, while excess alcohol can cause acute kidney injury.
Medications
Overuse of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and other drugs can be harmful to kidneys.
Click on a risk factor above to learn more about prevention.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
Certain symptoms may indicate a serious kidney problem. Seek urgent care if you experience:
- A sudden or complete stop in urination.
- Severe, sharp pain in your side or back, especially with fever, chills, or vomiting.
- Visible blood in your urine.
- Sudden swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, especially with shortness of breath.
- Sudden confusion or extreme fatigue.