Kidney Case Study

Identify the Problem The kidney is an extraordinary organ. Without its processes, human life would be virtually impossible. It is a very well known fact that when individuals consume large amounts of liquid, they eliminate much of the liquid through urine. On the other hand, when individuals are severely dehydrated very little urine is formed. This certainly illustrates that control mechanisms in the human being can regulate the amount of urine that is formed.
When tap water is ingested, there is a relatively rapid elimination of the water in the urine. However, when salt is ingested, there is a considerable delay in the excretion of water because salt is ingested. The ingestion of coffee is very quickly followed by rapid elimination
The ureters are about one-fourth inch in diameter and their muscular walls contract to make waves of movement to force the urine into the bladder. The bladder is expandable and stores the urine until it can be conveniently disposed of. It also closes openings into the ureters so that urine cannot flow back into the kidneys. The tube through which the urine flows out of the body is called the urethra.
Kidneys are also largely responsible for maintaining the water balance of the body and the pH of the blood. Kidneys play important roles in other bodily functions, such as releasing the hormone producing protein that stimulates increased development of red blood cells in the bone marrow, and helping to control blood pressure.
Kidneys are paired, reddish-brown, bean-shaped structures. They are about eleven centimeters long. Kidneys are located on each side of spine, just above the waist. The kidneys are sophisticated trash collectors. Every day, your kidneys process about 200 quarts of blood to sift out about two quarts of waste products and extra
It helps your body get rid of harmful wastes and extra salt and fluids; it also controls blood pressure and helps your body keep the proper balance of chemicals. Dialysis uses a dialyzer, or special filter, to clean your blood. The dialyzer connects to a machine. During treatment, your blood travels through tubes into the dialyzer. The dialyzer filters out wastes and extra fluids. Next the newly cleaned blood flows through another set of tubes and back into your body. Before a first treatment, an access to your bloodstream must be made. The access provides a way for blood to be carried from your body to the dialysis machine and then back into your body. Dialysis usually is done three times a week, each treatment lasts from 3 to 5 hours. During treatment people can read, write, sleep, talk, or watch TV. Side effects can be caused by rapid changes in your body's fluid and chemical balance during treatment. Muscle cramps and hypotension are two common side effects. Hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure, can make you feel weak, dizzy, or sick to your stomach, it usually takes a few months to adjust to hemodialysis. Side effects can be avoided if you follow the proper diet and take your medicines as directed. Side effects can usually be treated quickly and