Kidney Quiz & Facts

Select the correct answer to each question below.

*Answers can be found at the bottom of the page.

Question #1

When uncontrolled, very high blood pressure is up to 2 times more likely to result in kidney failure.

True
False

Question #2

About 30% of Type 1 and 5 to 10% of Type 2 diabetes patients will eventually have kidney failure.

True
False

Question #3

One of the six warning signs of kidney failure is puffiness around the eyes.

True
False

Question #4

Kidneys help stimulate white blood cell production.

True
False

Question #5

Kidneys are the size of your fist and are shaped like kidney beans.

True
False

Question #6

A person can only live with two kidneys.

True
False

Frequently Asked Questions

What size are your kidneys?

Your kidneys are the size of your fist.

Where are they located?

Your kidneys are located on your backside, behind your lower ribs, 2 inches above your waist.

How do kidneys look?

They are shaped like kidney beans and are purplish brown.

How many kidneys are there in the body?

Normally there are two kidneys, but a person can function with only one.

What do your kidneys do for you?

Filter and rid the body of waste.

Regulate fluid balance in the body (Example: if you drink a lot of fluids you will pass a lot of urine in order to keep your body's fluid content at the same level.

Regulate electrolytes (Minerals like sodium and potassium)

Produce hormones involved with regulating blood pressure and stimulating red-blood cell production.

Why is it important to know about your kidneys?

Kidney and urinary tract diseases are a major health problem in this country. Each year 90,000 Americans die from kidney disease, and each year 250-300 Greater Cincinnatians develop end-stage renal disease.

End-stage renal disease is permanent, irreversible damage to both kidneys; and there is no cure. Problems range from mild urinary tract infections treated with antibiotics to total kidney failure which requires kidney transplantation or treatment on an artificial kidney machine (dialysis).

Uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes will often lead to kidney disease. If you are at risk or experience signs of kidney disease you will need to contact your physician. Problems range from mild urinary tract infections treated with antibiotics to total kidney failure which requires kidney transplantation or treatment on an artificial kidney machine (dialysis).

What are the warning signs of kidney disease?

Burning or difficulty during urination
Blood in the urine
More frequent urination
Low back pain
Puffiness around the eyes
High blood pressure

What can I do for my kidneys?

Eat a balanced diet unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.
Only take medicine prescribed by your doctor and follow your doctor's directions exactly.
Protect the kidney area by wearing proper sports equipment and by wearing seat belts.

Kidney Quiz Answers

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If you have any questions, call Kidney Foundation of Greater Cincinnati at 513.961.8105.