Most Important Anatomical Diseases In The Human Body

The kidneys are two of the most important anatomical structures in the human body because of their role in removing excess water and waste that has accumulated as a normal by-product of metabolic activity. A healthy pair of kidneys does an effective job of filtering molecules from the bloodstream that are no longer useful to the body while preventing the escape of particles that the body can still use. It accomplishes this feat through the use of a specialized membrane that is strategically placed next to the blood vessels that transport blood through the kidneys. This membrane contains tiny holes that are just large enough to allow water and waste particles to cross over into the collection tubes, but small enough to block larger and more important molecules like proteins from exiting the bloodstream.
This leads to an unhealthy accumulation of water and waste that eventually causes swelling in the hands and feet, a metallic taste in the mouth, abnormally high or low urine production, muscle spasms, fatigue, mental changes, dry skin, and much more. Unfortunately, the prevalence of these types of symptoms has been increasing in the United States over the past several years because of the number of new cases of renal failure that have resulted from chronic diet and exercise related illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure. The vast majority of the people who develop kidney damage are required to receive long-term dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant in order to survive. This approach to medical management can be very stressful for patients and it is important for the public to develop an appreciation for renal health before kidney failure