What are your kidneys and what do they do?
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They are located just below the rib cage, one on each side of your spine. Healthy kidneys filter about a half cup of blood every minute, removing wastes and extra water to make urine (nih.gov.au, 2022).
Why are kidneys so important?
- They remove waste and extra fluid from your body;
- They remove acid that are produced by the cells;
- They maintain a healthy balance of water, salts and minerals in your blood;
- They make hormones that help control your blood pressure, make red blood cells and keep bones strong and healthy;
How do you help look after your kidneys?
According to kidney.org.au (2022)..
- Check your blood pressure regularly;
- Monitor blood glucose levels if you have diabetes and ensure you stay within your targets;
- Lead an active, healthy lifestyle and maintain healthy body weight;
Risk factors of kidney disease.
‘One in three Australians have an increased risk of kidney disease.’ – Kidney Health Australia (2022). Risk factors for developing kidney disease include people who:
- have diabetes;
- have high blood pressure;
- have established heart problems (heart failure or heart attack) or have had a stroke;
- have a family history of kidney disease or kidney failure;
- are obese with a body mass index (BMI) 30 or higher;
- have smoked or is a current smoker;
- are 60 years or older;
- are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin;
- have a history of acute kidney injury;
It is also important to note people who have none of the risk factors above may also develop kidney disease.
You can take a quick kidney risk test here – https://kidney.org.au/kidneyrisktest/
Always consult your doctor for any areas of concern.