(Part I – Circulatory system and Part II – Respiratory system)
Exploring the Human Body – The Urinary System
The main components of your urinary system are your two kidneys (1), which drain urine through two tubes called ureters (2) into your bladder (3). Urine is excreted from your body through another tube called the urethra (4).
Your urinary system works closely with your circulatory system and your digestive system. After your body has taken all the energy it needs from the food that you eat and liquids you drink, one of the waste products left over is urea. Urea is carried by your blood to your kidneys where it is filtered out and excreted through your urine.
Urinary System Conditions
Common problems of the urinary system include infections, blockage, and loss of function.
Infections can occur in the kidneys, the bladder, or the urethra. In men, a gland called the prostate, which is part of the male reproductive system, can become enlarged and block urine flow.
Stones can form inside the kidney (see picture) or the bladder and cause blockage as well as infection.
Renal failure occurs when the kidneys can no longer filter waste products out of your blood. The renal system can also be affected by kidney cancer or urinary tract cancers.
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Stay healthy!
Vidya Sury
