Urinary System / Renal System (kidneys , ureters, bladder, urethra)

The urinary system, also known as the renal system, is a vital organ system responsible for removing waste and excess fluids from the body.

*Components:*

1. Kidneys (2)
2. Ureters (2)
3. Urinary bladder
4. Urethra

*Functions:*

1. Filtration: kidneys filter blood to remove waste.
2. Regulation: maintains electrolyte balance, pH, and fluid levels.
3. Excretion: removes waste and excess substances.
4. Storage: urinary bladder stores urine.

*Process:*

1. Blood flows to kidneys through renal arteries.
2. Kidneys filter blood, producing urine.
3. Ureters transport urine to bladder.
4. Bladder stores urine until full.
5. Urethra carries urine out of body.

*Key structures:*

1. Nephrons (kidney units): filter blood.
2. Glomeruli (capillary clusters): filter waste.
3. Renal tubules: reabsorb nutrients and water.
4. Collecting ducts: transport urine to calyces.

*Importance:*

The urinary system:

1. Removes waste and toxins.
2. Regulates blood pressure.
3. Maintains electrolyte balance.
4. Supports overall health.

*Diseases and disorders:*

1. Kidney stones
2. Kidney failure
3. Chronic kidney disease
4. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
5. Bladder cancer

*Interesting facts:*

1. Kidneys filter 1.5 liters of blood/min.
2. Urine production: 1-2 liters/day.
3. Kidneys regulate 99% of calcium levels.
4. Urinary system helps maintain blood pH.

*Accessories:*

1. Adrenal glands (produce hormones)
2. Renal pelvis (collects urine)