Functions of Kidney and Urinary tract

Functions of the Kidneys

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

• Remove toxins from the blood during filtration.

7) Metabolite and Bioactive Substance Regulation

• Excrete metabolites like urea and regulate bioactive substances.

Functions of the Urinary Tract

1) Transportation of Urine

• Ureters move urine from kidneys 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.