The Functions of the Kidkeys

Kidneys are essential organs that perform numerous crucial roles to maintain homeostasis within a person’s body.
Primary function of kidneys revolves around filtering waste products and excess substances from the bloodstream. This removal helps maintain a stable internal environment.
Another key role is the regulation of water balance. Kidneys do this by either reabsorbing water back into the bloodstream or flushing it out in urine if the body has excess water.
It is in the kidneys where urea, a waste product resulting from protein metabolism, is removed from the blood. Urea, combined with water and other wastes, then forms urine.
Kidneys balance electrolytes in the body, such as sodium and potassium. These minerals are vital for muscle function, heart rhythm, and other critical bodily functions.
They are also responsible for maintaining the body’s pH by excreting hydrogen ions into the urine and reabsorbing bicarbonate from urine. This helps to keep the pH of the blood at around 7.4 – slightly alkaline.
Kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells.
Additionally, kidneys convert vitamin D into its active form. This helps the body absorb calcium efficiently, promoting bone health and function.
Another hormone produced by kidneys is renin. Renin is crucial in the regulation of blood pressure – it does so by controlling the contraction and dilation of blood vessels.
If kidneys fail to function correctly, a condition known as kidney failure or renal failure, it could lead to a dangerous build-up of toxic substances in the body, disturbances in electrolyte balance, and issues in blood pressure regulation.