An Introduction to Kidney Disorders

The kidneys play a significant role in the body: They act as a filter to remove waste products from the blood as well as control blood pressure and maintain acid-base balance. Pain in the kidney and surrounding regions of the body may indicate an existing a kidney disorder.

In the United States, over 3 million people suffer from kidney disorders. An additional 20 million Americans live with kidney failure.

Kidney Pain
Kidney pain is usually centered in the lower back but may spread to surrounding areas of the body. Various disorders can cause the pain, including kidney stones and kidney cancer.

Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are mineral deposits that accumulate in the urinary tract. Usually, stones pass through the tract without any symptoms, but an obstructed stone can cause much pain.

Kidney Failure
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter out wastes, usually as a result of a physical injury, surgical complication, or medical condition such as hypertension.