The Urinary System
Major Function
The major function of the urinary system is to release wastes from the body, as well as contributing to maintaining homeostasis in the body Differences Between Males and Females
The main difference between the male and female urinary system is that the male urethra in longer than the female urethra, as the male urethra is part of both the urinary system and reproductive system. In males, the urethra carries urine and semen out of the body, and it only carries urine out of the body for women. Fun Facts
-Urine contains 95% water, 2.5% urea, and 2.5% other minerals -Nerves connected to the bladder tell the brain when the bladder needs to be emptied -If one kidney is removed, the other kidney can grow up to 50% larger in size to compensate -The average person will pass 1.5 to 2 liters of urine every 24 hours -The average bladder can carry 300ml to 600ml of urine at a time |
Major Organs
-Bladder: The bladder is a muscular sac that functions in storing urine produced by the kidneys. It allows the flow of urine to be voluntary and periodic, and releases urine through two sphincters. -Kidney: Bean shaped organs that help eliminate waste by producing urine, which is a combination of waste and water. Other functions include synthesizing glucose, detoxifying poisons, and controlling electrolyte and acid-base balance. -Ureter: Transports urine from the kidneys to the bladder. -Urethra: The urethra carries urine out of the body, and also carries semen out of the body in men Diseases
Urinary Tract Infection: UTIs can occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract, and can effect the urethra, bladder and kidneys. They are more common in women than men. Prostatitis: A swelling of the prostate gland in men, which can lead to frequent and painful urination. Kidney Stones: Small, hard deposits formed in the kidneys that can cause pain in the back and sides, and are painful and difficult to pass |