Skip Navigation
 

Kidney Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do the kidneys do?

Drawing of kidneys - Click to enlarge in new window.
Click to enlarge image

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. 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.