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Kidneys perform crucial functions that affect all parts of the body and are involved in complex operations that keep the rest of the body in balance. When the kidneys are damaged by disease, other organs are affected. Kidney problems can range from a minor urinary tract infection to progressive kidney failure. Scientific advances over the past three decades have improved our ability to diagnose and treat those who suffer from kidney disorders...
- Refractory gout is a rare form of gout. This condition can be painful and serious. People with refractory gout can also have problems with the kidneys.
- Signs and symptoms of the disease include chronic arthritis; joints with swelling, redness, and intense pain, and tophi (lumps around hands, elbows and other body parts). The disease can continue despite treatment.
- People with refractory gout might need additional...
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Some transplant centers require a certain body mass index (BMI) before transplant. BMI is an estimate of your body fat based on your height and weight. A BMI greater than 30 kg/m2 indicates obesity, which has been linked to an increased risk for infection, poor wound healing, and rejection of the donated kidney. If your transplant center has asked you to lose weight before your transplant, you...
Urinary tract infections are responsible for nearly 10 million healthcare visits each year. Here’s what you need to know.
What is the urinary tract?The urinary system (also called the “urinary tract”) is the part of your body that makes urine. It is made up of two kidneys, the ureters, the bladder, and the urethra.
How is urine made?Your kidneys make urine by removing wastes and extra water from your blood. ...
Have you ever wondered why health professionals ask for a urine sample? The kidneys remove waste material, fluids, and other substances from the blood. The urine can contain many different clues to how your body is doing. Your urine tells a lot about your health. Testing the urine is known as “urinalysis” (analysis of the urine). The most common use of urinalysis is to detect substances or cells in the urine that point to...
In recent years, better ultrasound machines have allowed your doctor to see your baby's kidneys more clearly during pregnancy. Different types of problems can be found including absence of one or both kidneys, abnormal position of a kidney, hydronephrosis (swelling of a kidney), fluid-filled cysts and tumors.
The following overview of the urinary tract will help you understand the problems your baby may have.
What does the...