Physiology Functions of the Kidney

Although the kidneys represent less than 1 percent of the total weight of the body, they have a few extremely important functions in the body. Kidneys help regulate fluid levels, pH levels, and hormones, and get rid of wastes in the body.

Identification

• The kidneys are small bean-shaped organs located near the middle of the back, one on each side of the spine. Each kidney is made up of nearly one million nephrons and their associated tubules. The kidneys also involve collecting ducts, the ureter, and a variety of arteries and veins.

Functions

• The main functions of the kidneys involve removing wastes from the blood, regulating fluid levels, and producing urine. The kidneys also work to maintain the acid/base balance of the body and have some functions related to the endocrine system.

Cleansing Blood

• As blood passes through the kidneys, the kidney tubules measure out specific amounts of chemicals and release them back into the blood to return to the body. All excess molecules and any wastes are then allowed to exit the body as urine. Not only does this clear wastes from the body and regulate fluid levels, but it also maintains the pH level of the body.

Hormone Release

• The kidneys also release three main hormones into the body: erythropoietin, renin, and calcitriol. Erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells, renin regulates the body's blood pressure, and calcitriol helps regulate the balance of chemicals in the body.

Kidney Disease

• Occasionally, the kidneys will fail as a result of injury or infection. Kidney disease can be managed with moderate lifestyle changes, such as controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, and quitting smoking. However, if the kidneys fail completely, patients will require dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.