KIDNEY FUNCTION

Updated 7/24

The kidneys and their function

Typically , each human being has two kidneys. They are two bean
shaped organs situated in the flank area. The kidneys filter waste
from the blood , which is excreted as urine. The bladder acts as a
reservoir for urine.

Failure of the kidneys to do their normal function is very distressing

to the patient. Patients may become confused because of the retained
waste products. Pruritis ( itching) is also common.

Urinary output in renal may be absent ( anuria) or low (oliguria).

Causes of renal failure:

Hypovolemia  , excessive volume depletion from vomiting , diarrhea, 
blood loss or diuretics result in decreased blood flow to the kidneys
and are reversible by correction of the problem.
Drug induced renal failure may or may not be reversible.