Kidney function

kidney function

Kidney function refers to the many jobs the kidneys perform to keep the body internal environment stable and healthy. Each kidney contains tiny filtering units that remove waste and extra substances from the blood and send them out of the body as urine. At the same time, the kidneys carefully reabsorb water and important nutrients so the body does not lose what it needs. They also balance key minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium and keep the body’s acid-base level within a narrow range. Beyond filtering, kidneys make hormones that stimulate red blood cell production and help regulate blood pressure. When kidneys work well, blood is kept clean, fluid levels are steady, and tissues get the right chemical signals to function. If kidney function falls, wastes and fluids can build up, blood pressure can rise, and people may feel tired, swollen, or short of breath. Doctors check kidney function with simple blood and urine tests that estimate how well the filters are working. Protecting kidneys by staying hydrated, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, and avoiding harmful medicines helps prevent long-term problems.