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Aging changes in the kidneys
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| Aging changes in the kidneys |
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Information:
BACKGROUND
The kidneys filter the blood. Wastes are removed and excess fluid is disposed of as urine. The kidneys also play an important role in the chemical balance of the body. As with other organs, kidney function may be slightly reduced with aging. Text Continues Below
The urinary system also includes the ureters and the bladder. Bladder control can be affected by muscle changes and changes in the reproductive system. AGING CHANGES
As the kidney ages, the number of filtering units (nephrons) is reduced. Nephrons filter waste material from the blood. In addition to this filtering tissue, the overall amount of kidney tissue is reduced. The blood vessels supplying the kidney can become hardened. The kidneys filter blood more slowly. The bladder wall changes with age. The elastic tissue is replaced with tough fibrous tissue, and the bladder becomes less "stretchy" (distensible). Muscles weaken, and the bladder may not empty completely when urinating. In men, the urethra may become blocked by an enlarged prostate gland. In women, weakened muscles can allow the bladder or vagina to "fall" out of position (prolapse), which can block the urethra. EFFECTS OF CHANGES
The kidneys have a built-in extra capacity. Under usual conditions, kidney function remains normal in an aging person, although sometimes they function more slowly than the kidneys of a younger person. However, decreased efficiency occurs when the kidneys are under an increased workload. Illness, medications, and other conditions can increase kidney workload. The changes in the kidneys may affect an elderly person's ability to concentrate urine and hold onto water. The response to changes in fluids and electrolytes taken in is slowed. Dehydration occurs more readily because older people frequently have less of a sense of thirst.
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