BLOG 69 KIDNEYS

BLOG 69 KIDNEYS

The kidneys play a vital role in our bodily functions. Thus, kidney health is important. But not all of us are aware of what exactly our kidneys do for us. So let’s take a look at these two units in our bodies and learn more important information that can be applied to the success of our fitness journeys. 

Let’s start with the basics. We have two kidneys that are about the size of a fist (around 4 to 5 inches long) which are located towards our lower backs. Scientifically speaking, “The kidneys perform their life-sustaining job of filtering and returning to the bloodstream about 200 quarts of fluid every 24 hours. About two quarts are removed from the body in the form of urine, and about 198 quarts are recovered. The urine we excrete has been stored in the bladder for anywhere from 1 to 8 hours” (https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswrk). Adding to this, “The kidneys remove wastes, control the body's fluid balance, and regulate the balance of electrolytes. As the kidneys filter blood, they create urine, which collects in the kidneys' pelvis -- funnel-shaped structures that drain down tubes called ureters to the bladder” (http://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/picture-of-the-kidneys). 

Yet, there are a number of problems that can occur with our kidneys. People with high blood pressure or diabetes are certainly at a higher risk for issues, and genetics can also play a factor. In fact, “Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease” (https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswrk). African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at a higher risk as well. Two very common kidney problems are kidney stones and poly-cystic kidney disease. Urinary tract infections can also cause pain in the kidney area.  

Kidney disease can be successfully treated and research is still being performed to help resolve associated problems. Kidney disease typically affects both sides. Transplants have high success rates. After seeing a specialist, one might undergo one of the following: “Kidney failure may be treated with hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation. Treatment with hemodialysis (the artificial kidney) may be performed at a dialysis unit or at home. Hemodialysis treatments are usually performed three times a week. Peritoneal dialysis is generally done daily at home. Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis requires the use of a machine while Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis does not” (https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswrk). 

When I think of kidney failure, I always picture Julia Roberts in the movie, Steel Magnolias. Her diabetes caused kidney failure and she was on dialysis. Sallie Mae (her mother) donated a kidney to her. Julia Robert’s arms painfully showed the body’s reaction to dialysis with her veins protruding and her forearms bruised. Clients have had kidney stones and sometimes I even hear of their pets having kidney problems. It seems to be somewhat common in cats. 

Being aware of our bodies and listening to them is so important on our fitness journeys. We know that we can overcome obstacles and find ways to be successful on our journeys. Regular physical examinations are important to be aware of what is happening internally. We only get one body, so let’s continue to make the most of it. Let’s continue to be proactive and active learners about our bodies.