Kidney: Difference between revisions
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The kidneys, along with the [[ | The kidneys, along with the [[Lungs|lungs]] are one of the two major sets of paired organs in the body. They are located in the lower back, just below and to either side of the [[Vertebral column|vertebral column in]] an area known as the [[Retroperitoneal space|retroperitoneal space]]; the left kidney being situated slightly higher than the right due to its larger size. The main function of the kidneys is to clean and process the [[Blood|blood]] via the removal of waste products and excess [[Water|water]], The kidneys also have an [[Endocrine|endocrine]] function, as they produce and secrete [[Hormones|hormones]] such as [[erythropoietin|erythropoietin]]. <br> | ||
== Causes of Kidney Failure == | == Causes of Kidney Failure == | ||
Revision as of 15:07, 15 October 2012
The kidneys, along with the lungs are one of the two major sets of paired organs in the body. They are located in the lower back, just below and to either side of the vertebral column in an area known as the retroperitoneal space; the left kidney being situated slightly higher than the right due to its larger size. The main function of the kidneys is to clean and process the blood via the removal of waste products and excess water, The kidneys also have an endocrine function, as they produce and secrete hormones such as erythropoietin.
Causes of Kidney Failure
ACUTE RENAL FAILURE
Pre-renal cause
- Blood loss
- Dehydration
- Diuretics
- Obstruction in renal artery / vein
Renal causes
- Sepsis, infection / inflammation
- Medication, toxic to the kidney
- Muscle break down
Post-renal cause
- Obstruction in the bladder / urethra, due to cancer, tumor or back pressure
CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE
- Unregulated diabetes
- Unregulated high blood pressure