The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located deep in the abdomen. Urine produced
by the kidneys goes into the bladder via the ureter where it is stored temporarily.
Once the bladder is full the process we know as urination removes this stored urine
from the bladder.
Its functions are:
o
Removal of excess water
o
Removal of harmful substances and toxins, such as
urea and creatinine
o
Regulation of body electrolytes (salts) such as sodium
and potassium
o
Control of blood pressure
o
Production of hormones such as active vitamin D and
erythropoietin
o
Maintenance of calcium and phosphate balance in the
body
o
Maintenance of acid-base balance in the body
Waste substances and excess water is removed via the production of urine. The main
waste substance in the urine is urea, which gives it its distinctive colour and
odour.