What is Pyelonephritis? Symptoms and Treatment

Pyelonephritis is a condition that occurs when bacteria or virus cause infections in one or both kidneys. A kidney infection may begin in the urethra and then spread to the bladder and further to the kidneys.

A kidney infection is a very serious condition. If it is not treated properly, it can result in the kidney being damaged for life. Moreover, the infection may spread to the bloodstream which can cause worse problems for a person.

In today’s blog, we will look at the symptoms and treatment of pyelonephritis from one of the best kidney specialists.

What Is the Function of Your Kidneys?

The kidney is a bean-shaped organ whose primary function is to remove waste from the body in the form of urine. They also regulate the amount of water and electrolytes in your body. The proper functioning of the kidney is crucial to good health.

What Is the Common Cause of Kidney Infections?

The most common kidney infections are caused by bacteria and virus that enters the body through the urinary tract.

One of the common bacterial causes is E. coli also known as Escherichia coli. This bacteria is found in the intestines and can enter the urinary tract through the urethra which is a tube that carries urine out of the bladder.

Other causes of kidney infections are:

1. Surgery of the bladder or kidneys
2. Infection from somewhere else in your body, for example, any artificial joint that spreads through the bloodstream to the kidneys
3. Enlarged prostate in men
4. Problem with the shape of the urinary tract
5. Kidney stone or tumour blocking the urinary flow  

What Are the Symptoms of Pyelonephritis?

Symptoms of kidney infection typically appear 2 days after infections. Some of the common symptoms are:

• Chills
• Fever
• Bad-smelling or cloudy urine
• Pus or blood in the urine
• Burning or pain while urinating
• Frequent urination or the feeling that you have to urinate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in the back, abdomen, groin, or side.

Consult with the best kidney specialist and they will help you with the treatment.

Treatment of Pyelonephritis

Treatment typically depends on the severity of the infection. For mild infections, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. You may need to take antibiotics for 2 to 3 weeks as per the doctor’s prescription. Serious infections may require hospitalisation.

Conclusion

Get in touch with the best kidney specialist in case you notice any of the above symptoms. They will diagnose and treat the infection carefully, ruling out other possibilities.  Reach out to Doctor2Care today for a consultation!