About your kidneys

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of your fist. They are located just below the rib cage, one on each side of the spine. Every day, the two kidneys filter about 120 to 150 quarts of blood to produce about 1 to 2 quarts of urine, composed of wastes and extra fluid. 

The kidneys are responsible for regulating the balance of ions known as electrolytes in our blood. They also filter waste products and excrete excess fluid. 

Common lab tests check your Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate in order to assess your degree of kidney function. In addition to these tests, your doctor may order other bloodwork to assess for other kidney-related conditions such as anemia and bone-health.