The urinary system Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are the main functions of the urinary system?
The urinary system comprises the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra and functions primarily to filter and eliminate wastes (especially nitrogenous wastes like urea), regulate acid-base balance, maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, regulate blood volume and pressure, regulate blood glucose, activate vitamin D, and provide erythropoietin.
What are the kidneys associated with in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
In TCM, the kidneys are the seat of vitality and energy, including sexual energy, reproduction, and fertility. They are associated with the emotion of fear and are linked with adrenal function and the stress response in Western medicine.
What is the importance of hydration for kidney health?
Hydration is essential for efficient filtration and elimination by the kidneys. It is recommended to include around 1.5–2 litres of filtered water daily, though individual needs may vary depending on constitution, climate, and physical activity levels.
How does salt intake affect kidney health?
Moderate salt intake is recommended. High salt intake is linked to immune cell activation and renal tissue remodelling, which increases the risk of kidney disease.
Why should high protein diets be avoided for kidney health?
High protein diets increase nitrogenous waste production (like urea, creatinine, and uric acid), which puts extra demand on the kidneys. This increases glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and can damage kidney structures over time. Animal protein is more harmful to kidneys than plant protein due to its acid load, phosphate content, and impact on the gut microbiome.
What does GFR stand for in kidney health?
GFR stands for Glomerular Filtration Rate, which measures kidney function and the efficiency of filtration.
What does the colour of urine indicate?
Urine colour can provide important clues about health: dark urine in the morning is normal; riboflavin can make urine bright yellow; cloudy urine may indicate infection; frothy urine may suggest proteinuria and renal disease; red or pink urine could be due to haematuria or eating beetroot; very dark urine not relieved by drinking more water is a red flag.
What should be noted about the first sample of the morning urine?
The first sample of the morning urine is usually darker in colour, which is normal due to concentration overnight.
What can cause urine to appear cloudy?
Cloudy urine may indicate an infection or other urinary issues.
What does frothy urine indicate?
Frothy urine may indicate proteinuria, which can be a sign of renal disease.
What does red or pink urine indicate?
Red or pink urine could be due to haematuria (presence of blood in the urine) or consumption of foods like beetroot.
What does very dark urine, not relieved by drinking water, suggest?
Very dark urine that is not relieved by drinking more water could be a red flag and may indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.
