kidney and urinary tract Functions

Functions of the Kidney

1. Filtration of Blood

   • Filter waste and excess substances from blood, excreting them as urine.

2. Regulation of Blood Volume and Pressure

   • Adjust water excretion and release renin to regulate blood pressure.

3. Electrolyte Balance

   • Maintain balance of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium.

4. Acid-Base Balance

   • Regulate blood pH by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate.

5. Erythropoiesis Regulation

   • Produce erythropoietin to stimulate red blood cell production.

6. Detoxification as kidney functions

   • Remove toxins from the blood during filtration.

7. Metabolite and Substance Regulation

   • Excrete metabolites like urea and regulate bioactive substances.

Functions of the Urinary Tract

1. Transportation of Urine

   • Ureters move urine from kidney to bladder via peristalsis.

2. Storage of Urine

   • Bladder stores urine until ready for excretion.

3. Controlled Excretion of Urine

   • Coordinated action of sphincters and detrusor muscle controls urination.

4. Prevention of Infection

   • Urinary flow flushes out pathogens and valves prevent backflow, reducing infection risk.

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