Urinary System

The urinary system, also known as the renal system, is responsible for filtering and eliminating waste products from the blood as urine. It consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Kidneys

The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that filter waste products and excess substances from the blood to form urine. They also help regulate blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and red blood cell production.

Ureters

The ureters are muscular tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder

The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine until it is expelled from the body.

Urethra

The urethra is the tube through which urine is expelled from the body.

Functions of the Urinary System

1. Filtering waste products from the blood.
2. Regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
3. Regulating red blood cell production.
4. Storing and excreting urine.

Common Urinary System Disorders

1. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
2. Kidney stones
3. Chronic kidney disease
4. Bladder infections

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying the urinary system:

• The main organs of the urinary system are the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
• The kidneys filter waste products and regulate blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
• The ureters transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
• The bladder stores urine until it is expelled from the body through the urethra.
• Common disorders of the urinary system include UTIs, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease.