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Sat | : 9:00am - 12:00pm |
Sun/PH | : Closed |
2:00pm - 5:00pm
Kidney
Kidney
Around 14% of Singaporeans suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is one of the highest rates in the world. Seeking advice from a kidney specialist or visiting a reputable kidney clinic can help manage and prevent kidney-related issues effectively. The kidneys play a crucial role in our health by removing waste products from the blood and producing urine. Paying attention to one’s kidney health can ensure these vital organs function at their best for a long time to come.
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Wong, Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology), FICS (USA), FRCS (Edinburgh), M Med (Surgery), MBBS (S’pore)
What Are the Kidneys?
The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs located on the side of the spine, behind the belly, and below the ribs. Each kidney measures approximately 4-5 inches long and contains a million tiny filters called nephrons. Nephrons are the most significant component of the kidney as they enable the organ to filter blood to absorb nutrients and remove waste products.
What Is the
Function of the Kidneys?
The main function of the kidneys is to filter blood and expel waste through the urine. They also play an important role in maintaining calcium, sodium, and potassium levels, and producing hormones needed by the body to regulate blood pressure and prompt the bone marrow to make red blood cells. Aside from these, the kidneys eliminate harmful drugs and chemicals from the body and produce a type of vitamin D that promotes healthy bones.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and visiting a kidney clinic should you suspect something is wrong are important to ensure the health and functions of the kidneys.
Anatomy of a Kidney
The kidneys are complex organs consisting of various parts, including:
Kidney Capsule (Renal Capsule)
Three layers of connective tissue or fat that shields the kidneys, keeps them stable and connects them to surrounding tissues.
Renal Cortex
The outer layer of the kidney where the nephrons (blood-filtering units) begin, and where ultrafiltration occurs.
Renal Medulla
The inner part of the kidney which contains most of the nephrons with their glomeruli and renal tubules.
Renal Papillae
These are pyramid-shaped structures that transfer urine to the ureters.
Renal Artery
A large blood vessel that carries a little over 1.2 litres of blood to the kidneys each minute.
Renal Vein
The main blood vessel that carries filtered blood away from the kidneys and back to the heart.
Renal Pelvis
A funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the nephrons and passes it down two ureters.
Signs and Symptoms of
Kidney Problems
It is important to note that these symptoms may not necessarily be indicative of a kidney problem, and may be caused by another underlying condition. Patients should get evaluated by a kidney specialist for an accurate diagnosis. Nonetheless, possible signs and symptoms to look out for include:
Muscle Cramps
Electrolyte imbalances, which can be caused by impaired kidney function, may contribute to muscle cramping.
Blood in Urine
Blood in the urine can indicate possible kidney issues such as kidney stones, infections, inflammation, or even tumours.
Foamy Urine
Excessive bubbles in the urine may be caused by protein in the urine, which can indicate kidney damage.
Puffy Eyes
Protein leaking from the kidneys into the urine, an early sign of kidney damage, can also cause puffiness around the eyes.
Itchy or Dry Skin
It can be a sign of the mineral and bone disease that often accompanies advanced kidney disease and affects the skin's natural moisture balance.
More Frequent Urination
Feeling the need to urinate more often can be caused by the kidneys trying to remove excess fluids or waste products from the blood.
Swelling on the Ankle or Feet
When the kidneys are not working properly, it can lead to sodium retention which causes swelling.
Trouble Sleeping
The accumulation of toxins in the blood due to impaired kidney function can interfere with sleep regulation, causing restlessness and difficulty falling asleep.
Early detection is key to keeping your kidneys healthy.
If you notice any abnormal urinary symptoms, consult a kidney specialist today.
Conditions Treated by
Our Kidney Specialist in Singapore
Our Singapore kidney clinic is fully equipped to diagnose and treat various kidney issues, including:
Kidney Stones
One of the most common conditions that kidney specialists treat is
Kidney Blocka
Also referred to as hydronephrosis, this condition is characterised by a blockage in the urinary tract. This blockage prevents the urine from being drained from the kidneys or in some cases, the urine may flow back up the kidneys. This can cause swelling of the kidneys due to urine buildup. Kidney specialists in Singapore treat this with antibiotics or surgery, depending on the severity.
Kidney Cysts
These are round pouches or sacs filled with fluid that grow on the surface or in the nephron of the kidneys. Simple kidney cysts are normal and common, especially in those who are 50 years old and older. They are also harmless, with a low risk that they will develop into something more serious.
Kidney Cancer
This type of cancer begins in the kidney, and is characterised by an abnormal growth of cells that form a tumour. The most common form of
How to Prevent
Kidney Problems
Here are some key ways to prevent kidney problems:
Reduce Salt Intake
Eating too much salt can disrupt the balance of minerals in the blood, making it harder for the kidneys to work properly.
Regular Exercise
Exercising regularly helps keep one’s weight within a healthy range and prevents high blood pressure, which is a known risk factor for chronic kidney disease.
Maintain Hydration
Drinking enough water, ideally 2-3 litres daily, aids the kidneys in efficiently removing waste products through urination.
Lifestyle Changes
Stop smoking and limit alcohol intake to avoid damaging your kidneys. These lifestyle changes improve overall health and reduce the risk of kidney problems.
Avoid Overusing Medications
Long-term use of certain medications can be harmful to the kidneys. Talk to your doctor and ensure your kidney function is monitored.
Let us help you
Restore your urological health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
Office
Location
3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09,
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
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Hours
Mon-Fri | : 9:00am - 1:00pm |
Sat | : 9:00am - 12:00pm |
Sun/PH | : Closed |