The human body has excess capacity — that is, our organs have more reserve than most of us will ever need. This biological advantage allows us to live healthy lives even when some organs are compromised or removed. However, have you ever wondered why some of our organs come in pairs, such as kidneys, whereas we only have one heart, one liver, and so on?
One theory behind the presence of paired organs is redundancy. Having two kidneys ensures that if one is damaged or fails to function properly, the other can compensate for its loss. This redundancy acts as a fail-safe mechanism, ensuring the continuous filtration of blood and removal of waste products from our body.
Pediatric kidney transplants are a testament to the significance of having two kidneys. Medical centers, such as the one in Darmstadt, Germany, have successfully performed numerous pediatric kidney transplants with outstanding outcomes. The presence of two kidneys increases the chances of a successful transplant, as there is an available healthy organ to replace a diseased or non-functioning one.
It is true that humans can survive with only one kidney. Some individuals are born with only one kidney due to developmental issues, while others may lose a kidney through surgery or organ donation. In such cases, the remaining kidney adapts and takes on the workload of both kidneys, ensuring the body's proper functioning.
Kidney transplantation is one of the most common organ transplant procedures. In fact, in 2022, doctors at NYU Langone performed over 300 successful kidney transplants. This highlights the vital role that kidneys play in maintaining overall health and the significance of having two of them.
Organ donation stories often showcase the selflessness and generosity of individuals like Zell Kravinsky, who willingly undergo surgery to donate one of their kidneys to save someone else's life. Such acts of kindness demonstrate the importance of having two kidneys, as it allows for the possibility of organ donation and transplantation, extending lives and improving quality of life.
Individuals like the Lake Orion man who ran a marathon to raise funds for Henry Ford Health epitomize the gratitude and appreciation for the life-saving capabilities of two kidneys. By supporting healthcare institutions and initiatives, we acknowledge the importance of maintaining a healthy population, where the availability of organs for transplantation is crucial.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common condition affecting the urinary system. Bacteria are the primary cause of UTIs, leading to symptoms such as pain during urination and discomfort in the side. The presence of two kidneys allows for a higher chance of successful treatment, as the unaffected kidney can continue its filtration and toxin removal functions.
In some cases, individuals, like the St. Louis County officer, may urgently require a kidney transplant. Taking matters into their own hands, they actively seek out potential donors to increase their chances of finding a suitable match. This highlights the urgency and importance of having two kidneys, as it provides individuals with the possibility of finding a life-saving solution.
In conclusion, the presence of two kidneys in the human body serves as a fascinating biological advantage. The redundancy they provide ensures our overall health and survival, as they compensate for any potential loss or damage. Whether through transplantation or adaptation, having two kidneys significantly improves the chances of maintaining a healthy and functional urinary system.
