More than a filter: what your kidneys do
Episode 161 min 9 sec
Neff shows that your kidneys do so much more than filter: they balance water, salts, and minerals, and make hormones.
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More than a filter: what your kidneys do
Video, 1 minute 9 seconds.
- Neff's voice is AI-generated.
- Reviewed by Shree Mulay, MD on
The words show on the screen as Neff talks. Press play when you are ready.
Read along
Here is every word Neff says in the video.
- Hi, I'm Neff! You may know your kidneys are filters. But they do so much more. Let's take a look!
- You have two kidneys. Each one is about the size of a fist. They sit just below your rib cage, one on each side of your spine.
- First, the filter job. Your kidneys clean waste and extra water out of your blood. That makes urine.
- They also keep the right balance of water, salts, and minerals in your blood. That helps your nerves and muscles work well.
- Your kidneys make hormones, too. These help control your blood pressure. They help your body make red blood cells. And they help keep your bones strong.
- So when your kidneys are hurt, it's not just the filter. Kidney disease can also lead to high blood pressure, low red blood cells, or bone problems.
- Many people with kidney disease feel fine at first. So we check with a blood test and a urine test.
- Want to know how your kidneys are doing? Ask us about your tests, and what they mean for you.
- We're here to help. Bring your questions to every visit. Let's take care of your kidneys together!
Neff's voice is AI-generated.
You may know your kidneys are filters. But they do so much more.
Talk with your care team
This video helps you learn. It does not tell you what is going on with your own kidneys. Your care team knows your health. Ask them what your numbers mean for you.
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Have a question about your kidneys?
Call us, or ask at your next visit. We are glad to help.