Question

How does kidney increase blood pressure?

Answer 1

Kidney:

1. Kidneys are paired organs, reddish-brown in color, and have the shape of a bean.
2. Kidneys are retroperitoneal in position, i.e., present below the ribs in the backside of the abdomen.
3. The prime function of the kidney is to filter the blood and make it pure, and free from toxicity.
4. Kidneys also perform the function of an endocrine gland by secreting hormones.

The hormone secreted by the kidney:

1. Adrenal glands present on the upper surface of the kidney secrete a hormone called aldosterone.
2. It is a corticosteroid hormone that assists in sodium absorption by the kidneys.
3. Aldosterone tends to increase blood pressure by allowing sodium ions and water absorption from the kidneys into the bloodstream.

Vasopressin:

1. Also called anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), secreted by the hypothalamus and it is a peptide hormone.
2. This hormone acts on the collecting ducts of the kidneys and regulates water absorption.
3. Vasopressin plays the role of constricting the blood vessels and thus, increasing blood pressure.