What does a kidney do?

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. They are responsible for several vital functions in the body, including:

* Regulating blood pressure: The kidneys help to regulate blood pressure by controlling the amount of sodium and water in the body. When blood pressure is too high, the kidneys excrete more sodium and water, which helps to lower blood pressure. When blood pressure is too low, the kidneys retain more sodium and water, which helps to raise blood pressure.

* Filtering waste products: The kidneys filter waste products from the blood and excrete them in the urine. These waste products include urea, creatinine, and uric acid.

* Regulating fluid balance: The kidneys help to regulate fluid balance in the body by controlling the amount of water excreted in the urine. When the body is dehydrated, the kidneys retain more water, which helps to restore fluid balance. When the body is overhydrated, the kidneys excrete more water, which helps to restore fluid balance.

* Producing hormones: The kidneys produce several hormones, including erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells; calcitriol, which helps the body absorb calcium; and renin, which helps to regulate blood pressure.

The kidneys are essential for life. Without kidneys, the body would not be able to regulate blood pressure, filter waste products, regulate fluid balance, or produce hormones.