The kidneys help filter blood.
The kidneys are paired bean-shaped organs that play a central role in the excretory system. They are located behind the abdominal cavity at the bottom of your ribcage on both sides of your back.
Urinary Tract
The urinary tract is composed of both kidneys, two ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder), the bladder, and the urethra.
Filtering Blood
Your kidneys help keep your blood clean by filtering out waste. Your kidneys process approximately 200 qt. of blood every day.
Regulating Hormones
Your kidneys also regulate the levels of three important hormones: erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells; renin, which controls blood pressure; and calcitriol, a form of vitamin D.
Regulating Blood Pressure
Your kidneys excrete salt to maintain a normal sodium balance. Kidney disease is the leading cause of high blood pressure.
Kidney Failure
Diabetes, high blood pressure, trauma, and poisons can contribute to kidney failure. Only one kidney is necessary for effective excretory system function.
Tags: Your kidneys, blood pressure, excretory system, high blood, high blood pressure