Anatomy and physiology of ageing 4: the renal system

The functions of the renal system include removal of waste products; regulation of blood volume, blood pressure and red blood cells; and balancing of electrolytes and blood pH. Renal function starts to gradually decline after the third decade of life but, in the absence of disease, the renal system is able to fulfil its role throughout life. In spite of this, many anatomical and physiological changes mean older people are prone to issues such as polyuria, nocturia and incontinence. This fourth article in our series on the anatomy and physiology of ageing explains how age affects the organs of the renal system, leading to a reduction in renal function.


Key points 

1.The renal system is the most powerful regulator of the body’s internal environment

2. With advancing age, renal blood flow – and therefore glomerular filtration rate – are reduced

3.The mass and weight of the kidneys decrease significantly after the age of 50 years

4. The progressive degradation of renal function leads to issues typical of old age such as polyuria, nocturia and incontinence

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Read full article at: https://www.nursingtimes.net/roles/older-people-nurses/anatomy-and-physiology-of-ageing-4-the-renal-system/7017619.article

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