MAA-MEDIcare Kidney charity Fund

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.