A typical human body has two kidneys. They are bean-shaped organs, each roughly the size of a fist, located toward the back of the abdomen, just below the rib cage on either side of the spine. Their main job is to filter the blood, remove waste and extra fluid, and produce urine.
What I find genuinely fascinating is that we normally have two kidneys, yet many people can live healthy lives with just one functioning kidney. It really shows how much reserve capacity our body has.
Kidney Location
The two kidneys sit toward the back of your body, one on each side of the spine and just below the rib cage.
Kidney fact | Answer |
|---|---|
Normal number | 2 |
Shape | Bean-shaped |
Approximate size | About a fist |
Location | Below ribs, either side of spine |
Main role | Filter blood and make urine |
Interestingly, the kidneys aren't positioned at exactly the same height. The right kidney normally sits slightly lower because of the liver.
Functions
To call the kidneys just 'urine-making organs' does them a great disservice.
Your kidneys constantly filter your blood, eliminating waste products and extra water. They contain the proper amount of minerals such as sodium, calcium, phosphorus and potassium.
The kidneys make hormones that help manage blood pressure, make red blood cells and keep bones healthy.
“So I think we need to pay more attention to kidney health.” There is an organ that we hardly think of, but which is silently influencing some of our vital body functions every minute.
Living With One Kidney
Yes, a person can live with only one kidney.
Some people are born with one kidney, while others have a kidney surgically removed because of disease, injury or kidney donation. A person may also have two kidneys but only one that functions properly.
Many people with a solitary kidney live full, healthy lives. However, NIDDK notes that healthcare professionals may monitor kidney function and blood pressure because some people can develop complications.
So having one kidney doesn't automatically mean kidney failure.
Urinary System
The kidneys are part of the urinary tract, which includes:
Kidneys → Ureters → Bladder → Urethra
The two kidneys produce urine. Two ureters then carry that urine into the bladder, where it is stored until it leaves the body through the urethra.
I find this flow much easier to remember than memorizing every organ separately: kidneys make it, ureters carry it, the bladder stores it, and the urethra removes it.
FAQs
How many kidneys does a normal human have?
Most people have two kidneys.
Can a person survive with one kidney?
Yes. Many people with one healthy functioning kidney live normal lives, although medical monitoring may be recommended.
Can someone be born with one kidney?
Yes. This condition is known as kidney or renal agenesis.
Must Read: How to keep our kidneys healthy?
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