Nephrology is a medical specialty focused on diseases related to the kidneys. The kidneys function as the body's filtering units, with healthy kidneys filtering approximately 180 liters of blood daily to remove excess water and toxic materials, which are then expelled as urine. Any alteration or dysfunction in the kidneys can lead to acute or chronic renal (kidney) diseases, potentially causing significant damage or even resulting in death.

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Role of Kidneys: Your kidneys help maintain the body's salt and water balance by removing liquid waste from the blood. In an adult of normal weight (60-65 kg), about 1200 ml of blood flows through the kidneys every minute, which is roughly 20-25% of the heart's output. Therefore, normal kidney function is critical for maintaining the body's overall balance.

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Symptoms of Kidney Disease:

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• Burning sensation while urinating

• Frequent and excessive urination, especially at night

• Blood in the urine (brown or coffee-colored)

• Puffiness or edema in the face and body

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Headache

• Anemia

• Skin itching

• Lower back pain

• Physical weakness

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These symptoms are general guidelines and should prompt you to seek medical advice. Kidney disease is often detected through urine and blood tests, as many patients are asymptomatic.

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Common Causes of Kidney Diseases:

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• Long-standing diabetes

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

• Chronic glomerulonephritis

• Nephrotic syndrome

• Nephritic syndrome

• Collagen vascular disease/autoimmune disorders

• Chronic kidney infections (pyelonephritis)

• Polycystic kidney disease

• Frequent stone formation in the urinary tract

• Enlarged prostate gland

• Excessive use of medications, especially painkillers

• Cancer of the kidney, prostate, or bladder

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Consultation with a doctor is essential for diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.