The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that are located on the backside of the abdomen. Some people are born with just one kidney with the other not developed at all, and this condition is called agenesis. A single kidney is enough for a person to survive, given that it remains healthy. If you notice any problems related to kidneys, it is best to consult with a specialist. You can use phrases like “nephrologist in Salem” or similar ones to find the best specialists in your area.

Functions of the kidneys

Each kidney consists of about 1 million nephrons, and they are the structural and functional unit of the kidneys. Proper functioning of the kidneys is important for maintaining the body’s physiology, and here are the various functions performed by the kidneys.

• Excretion: Kidneys are responsible for the excretion of about 1000 middle molecules that are harmful to the body if retained.
• Acid-base regulation: Kidneys excrete H+ ions due to exogenous acid or protein load. 
• Other notable functions are performed besides vitamin D synthesis, erythropoietin production, glucose production, and immune functions.

Diseases that affect the kidneys

The kidneys are affected by various diseases. Some of them include:

• Diabetes mellitus: This is the leading cause of kidney failure in Western countries and Asia.
• Hypertension: Uncontrolled hypertension without diabetes can lead to hypertensive nephrosclerosis.
• Glomerulonephritis: IgA nephropathy is a glomerular disease leading to chronic kidney disease.
• Interstitial nephritis: Unexplained renal failure can happen because of chronic interstitial nephritis.
• Polycystic kidney disease: Congenital autosomal dominant kidney disease and congenital recessive polycystic kidney diseases are a few other causes.

Also Read: Pregnancy and Kidney Diseases

Prevention

Here are some preventive measures that can help you avoid the advent of kidney diseases.

• Salt restriction
• Adequate fluid consumption
• Maintaining ideal body weight
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sugar control for diabetic patients
• Adequate blood pressure control for patients with hypertension
• Avoidance of the frequent use of painkillers and antacids
• Avoidance of native medicines which might contain heavy metals

 

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