Pylonephirtitis

A kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). Bacteria cause it when they move from another part of your body, like your bladder, up to one or both of your kidneys. Kidney infections can be more serious than lower UTIs. See a healthcare provider if you have symptoms of a kidney infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a kidney infection include:

• Fever.
• Chills.
• Pain in your lower back or side.
• Pain when you pee (urinate).
• Bloody or cloudy pee (hematuria or pyuria) that might smell bad.
• Urgent or frequent need to pee.

Causes

Bacterial infections are the most common cause of kidney infections. Viruses can cause them, too, but it’s rare in people who are healthy. Some types of bacteria that cause kidney infections include:

• E. coli.
• Proteus mirabilis.
• Enterobacter.
• Staphylococcus.

Risk factors

Risk factors for kidney infections include:

• Blockage. Anything that keeps you from emptying the pee out of your urinary tract can allow bacteria to grow and back up into your kidneys. This includes kidney stones, enlarged prostate and uterine prolapse. Pressure on your bladder during pregnancy can also increase your risk.
• Vesicoureteral reflux. This is a condition where pee goes the wrong way and backs up from your bladder.
• Conditions that put you at increased risk for infections. These include diabetes, HIV and being on immunosuppressive medications.
• Your anatomy. Women and people assigned female at birth and people who don’t have a penis have a shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to move up to their bladder and kidneys.

Complications

Kidney infections can occasionally cause life-threatening complications, particularly in patients with a weaker immune system or other underlying health concerns. This includes:

• Emphysematous pyelonephritis. This is a disorder in which germs begin damaging sections of your kidneys and producing gas. It is more common in diabetics.
• Renal papillary necrosis. This is a kidney-damaging condition.

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider will identify a kidney infection after evaluating your symptoms and examining your urine for signs of infection. They may also use a CT scan or renal ultrasound to analyze your blood and take pictures of your kidneys. Only a doctor can diagnose a kidney infection. If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as fever and side pain, you could have a kidney infection.

Treatment

Doctors use antibiotics to treat kidney infections. You'll need to take antibiotics for at least fourteen days. If you are severely unwell or are not improving with antibiotics, you may need to be admitted to the hospital or continue taking antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe one or more antibiotics to treat a kidney infection. They may include:

• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX).
• Amoxicillin or augmentin.
• Ceftriaxone or cephalexin.
• Ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin.

You should feel better within two to three days of taking antibiotics. It may take longer for certain folks. Even if you feel better, you should finish your antibiotic medication.

Prevention

Infections in the bladder are common precursors to kidney infections. Preventing these lower urinary tract infections is the first step toward avoiding kidney infections. Some methods for preventing infections in all regions of the urinary tract include:

• Drink plenty of liquids. Consult your healthcare physician about the amount of water and other fluids they recommend for you every day.
• Empty your bladder entirely. Holding in your pee can promote bacterial growth.
• Pee before and after intercourse. This helps to eradicate any bacteria in your urinary tract.
• Practice proper hygiene. Showering frequently and changing out of wet or sweaty underwear might help prevent bacteria from entering your body. After you've pooped, wipe from front to back. This helps to move microorganisms in your stool away from body openings.

Conclusion

Pyelonephritis is a serious condition that necessitates quick medical intervention to prevent complications and maintain kidney health. Individuals can reduce their chances of catching this virus by learning its origins, recognizing symptoms early on, and taking precautions. If symptoms emerge, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial for successful treatment and recovery. For information, visit SHALBY Sanar International Hospitals in Gurugram.