Definition
The urinary system (renal system) removes waste, maintains electrolyte balance, regulates blood pressure, and produces hormones.
Anatomy
Kidneys (2): Filter blood, regulate fluid, electrolytes, acid-base balance, and produce hormones (erythropoietin, renin).
Ureters (2): Transport urine to the bladder via peristalsis.
Bladder: Stores urine (300–500 mL capacity).
Urethra: Excretes urine.
Male (20 cm): Passes through prostate.
Female (4 cm): Higher UTI risk.
Functions
Filtration and Excretion: Removes waste (urea, creatinine).
Balance: Regulates fluids, electrolytes, and pH.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).
Hormone Production:
Erythropoietin: Stimulates RBC production.
Vitamin D Activation: Enhances calcium absorption.
Urine Formation:
Filtration: Forms filtrate.
Reabsorption: Recovers water, glucose, and electrolytes.
Secretion: Eliminates waste.
Common Disorders
1) Kidney Disorders:
CKD: Gradual loss of function.
AKI: Sudden decline in function.
Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Mineral deposits.
Glomerulonephritis: Glomerular inflammation.
PKD: Genetic cystic disorder.
2) Bladder Disorders:
UTI: Bacterial infection.
Interstitial Cystitis: Chronic inflammation.
Bladder Cancer: Abnormal growth.
Incontinence: Loss of control.
3) Urethral Disorders:
Urethritis: Inflammation, often infection-related.
Stricture: Narrowing causing urinary difficulty.
Symptoms
Painful Urination (Dysuria).
Blood in Urine (Hematuria).
Frequent Urination (Polyuria/Nocturia).
Reduced Output (Oliguria/Anuria).
Proteinuria: Indicates kidney damage.
Diagnosis
Urinalysis: Detects blood, protein, and infections.
Blood Tests: BUN, creatinine, electrolytes assess function.
Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, MRI identify stones or abnormalities.
Special Tests:
Cystoscopy: Bladder inspection.
Biopsy: Kidney tissue analysis.
Treatment
1) Medications:
Antibiotics: UTIs.
Diuretics: Fluid overload.
Analgesics: Pain relief.
Antihypertensives: BP control.
Erythropoietin: Stimulates RBCs.
2) Procedures and Surgery:
Dialysis: Blood filtration in kidney failure.
Lithotripsy: Breaks kidney stones.
Nephrectomy: Kidney removal (cancer).
Transplant: For end-stage failure.
Prevention
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol.
Maintain BP and blood sugar control.
Practice hygiene to prevent infections.
Routine check-ups for early detection.
Prognosis of Urinary System
Acute Disorders: Often reversible.
Chronic Conditions: May need lifelong management, dialysis, or transplant.
Early Detection: Improves outcomes and reduces complications.