Know Your Kidneys

Know life's possibilities. Healthy kidneys make them happen.

Know how to prevent kidney disease. Learn how to prevent.

Know how to manage your kidney disease. Learn how to manage.

Child on moms back - Know your kidneys

Know what your kidneys do

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs near the middle of your back, one on either side of your spine, just below your ribcage. Your kidneys filter all the blood in your body many times a day to remove extra fluid and waste. This extra fluid and waste makes up your urine (pee).

Your kidneys do many other important jobs too, such as help control your blood pressure and keep your bones healthy. You need at least one healthy kidney to keep your body working the way it should.

Know about kidney disease

Almost everyone knows someone with kidney disease. One in seven Americans has kidney disease.

Kidney disease means your kidneys are permanently damaged and do not work as they should. This lets extra fluid and waste flow back into your bloodstream instead of leaving your body as urine. There is no cure for kidney disease, and you cannot reverse kidney damage. If your kidneys stop working, which is called kidney failure, you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive.

Learn about preventing and managing kidney disease

Talk with your doctor today about prevention and treatment

Download a doctor discussion guide to learn how to talk with your doctor about kidney disease, including questions to ask about how to prevent or slow down kidney disease.

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Fight kidney disease. Live healthier lives.

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