Discover Your Kidney’s Routine & Its Worries this World Kidney Day!

Bean-shaped organs below the rib cage and on either side of the spine are called kidneys. The reddish-brown-coloured organs perform the task of blood filtration in the body. These crucial organs are suffering because of our lack of understanding and ignorance towards them. A Lancet study says that more than 850 million people worldwide are suffering from kidney diseases like acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and treated kidney failure. Kidney complications can be averted by discovering routines and providing amicable solutions to their worries.

How many kidneys do we have?

Generally, 2 kidneys are present; however, 1 in 1000 babies might be born with 1 kidney or with just one functional kidney. Should we be worried if we have only one kidney? No. A person can lead a normal life, even with one kidney. 

The medical condition where a person is born with only one kidney is called renal agenesis.

If a person is born with two kidneys, but only one kidney is functional, then the condition is termed kidney dysplasia.

What is the function of the kidney?

Energy is produced in the body by the breakdown of compounds like protein and creatine. Waste is generated when these compounds are broken down for energy production. Nitrogenous waste is generated when protein is broken down into amino acids for the production of energy, and creatinine waste is generated when creatine in muscle is broken down to release energy. All the waste that is generated in our body is picked up by the blood and taken to the kidneys.

In the kidney, the blood is filtered. From the heart, the renal arteries bring the blood to the kidneys. In the kidneys, waste material from the blood is suctioned out, and filtered blood is sent back to the heart for pumping to various parts of the body. The filtration of blood is a continuous process. 180 litres of blood are filtered every 24 hours by the kidneys.

Kidneys also

• Regulate the pH balance of the blood, ensuring optimal acid-base equilibrium.
• Generate glucose to maintain adequate blood sugar levels.
• Synthesize renin, a protein that elevates blood pressure.
• Manufacture calcitriol and erythropoietin hormones. Calcitriol aids in calcium absorption, while erythropoietin stimulates red blood cell production.
• Each kidney is topped with an adrenal gland, responsible for hormone secretion such as cortisol and facilitating the body's stress response.

What worries kidneys, and why do they malfunction?

High blood pressure and diabetes harm the kidneys. Glomerular filtrate in kidneys gets harmed due to high blood pressure, resulting in poor filtration of blood. Blood tests are conducted to find chronic kidney diseases.

Some major kidney diseases

Chronic Kidney Disease: Glomerular Filtration Rate

In the majority of healthy individuals, a typical GFR (glomerular filtration rate) is 90 or greater. A GFR exceeding 60 is classified as normal. A GFR below 60 may indicate the presence of kidney disease. A GFR of 15 or lower suggests potential kidney failure. GFR is calculated by conducting a blood test.

Creatinine levels in the blood explain the GFR of the kidneys. Creatinine is excreted by the kidneys as urine. If pee contains a low level of creatinine and blood has a high amount of creatine, it suggests that the GMR filtrate in the kidneys is not working properly.

Kidney stone formation

Urine in our body becomes very concentrated as it passes through the kidneys. When the urine becomes too concentrated, uric acid salts, calcium, and other chemicals crystallize in the kidneys forming stones.

Symptoms of kidney disease

• Tiredness
• Cognitive challenges
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced appetite
• Muscle cramps
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Morning puffiness around the eyes
• Dry, flaky skin
• Increased urination, particularly during late hours

Steps to Prevent Kidney Diseases

• If overweight, strive to lose weight.
• Engage in regular physical activity to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
• Cease smoking habits.
• Prioritize kidney health by including kidney check-ups during routine medical examinations.
• Adhere to medication instructions diligently.
• Maintain blood pressure below 140/90, or consult with your physician to determine the optimal target for you.
• For individuals with diabetes, aim to consistently stay within your target blood sugar range.
• Ensure cholesterol levels remain within the designated target range.
• Opt for foods with lower sodium content.
• Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables in your diet.

Drinking plenty of water always is a great remedy to drive away toxins and unburden kidneys.

Most adults' hydration requirements can typically be met with a daily intake of approximately 2.7 liters (91 ounces) for women and 3.7 liters (125 ounces) for men.