Kidney Disease
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do the kidneys do?
You have two kidneys. They are bean-shaped and about the size of a fist. They are located in the middle of your back, on the left and right of your spine, just below your rib cage.
What Do the Kidneys Do?
Video length: 52 sec
Click to watch this video
Video length: 52 sec
Click to watch this video
The kidneys' main job is to filter your blood, removing wastes and extra water to make urine. They also help control blood pressure and make hormones that your body needs to stay healthy. When the kidneys are damaged, wastes can build up in the body.
