At Richmond Nephrology Associates, we specialize in the kidneys. We treat a variety of kidney issues, such as chronic kidney disease and chronic kidney stones. We offer dialysis services and anemia and hypertension management. But none of this means anything to you if you don’t know what the kidneys are! So our experts are here to tell you all about them.

The Kidneys and their Functionkidneys

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, and each one is about the size of your fist. They are surrounded by a thin layer of fat and muscle, and they are protected by the ribs and spine. They remove waste products from the blood and produce urine, which carries the waste away from the body. Other functions include:

  • The reabsorption of nutrients into the body
  • Electrolyte balance
  • Regulating blood pressure
  • Make red blood cells

You can find more specific details about the individual parts of the kidneys and how they work here.

What happens when the kidneys are unhealthy?

Healthy kidneys are extremely important to the body. When they are unhealthy, they can no longer filter and clean the blood properly. This can lead to a build-up of waste products in the blood, which can cause a number of health problems. If they fail completely, it can lead to death.

How do I know if something is wrong?

There are a variety of health issues that can occur within the kidneys, some more serious than others. In general, here are a few indications that something might be wrong:

  • Lower back pain, where your kidneys are located
  • Abdominal pain
  • More frequent or painful urination
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Swelling of the feet and ankles
  • Hypertension, or high blood pressure

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor right away or visit our specialists at Richmond Nephrology Associates. Contact us here!