Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)

A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms infect the kidneys. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the lower back, responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood.

Causes and Risk Factors

Kidney infections are typically caused by bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria can enter the kidneys through the urinary tract, usually through the urethra and bladder. Risk factors for developing a kidney infection include:

• Female sex: Women are more likely to develop UTIs and kidney infections due to their shorter urethra
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of UTIs and kidney infections
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to developing UTIs and kidney infections
• Weakened immune system: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to infections
• Anatomical abnormalities: Conditions like vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) can increase the risk of kidney infections
• Catheter use: Using a urinary catheter can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a kidney infection include:

• Pain or burning while urinating (dysuria)
• Frequent or intense need to urinate (urinary urgency and frequency)
• Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Pain in the lower back or flank area (costovertebral angle tenderness)
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a kidney infection typically involves:

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical exam to check for signs of infection, such as tenderness in the lower back or abdomen
• Urinalysis: A urine sample is collected and analyzed for the presence of bacteria, blood, or other abnormalities
• Urine culture: A urine sample is sent to a laboratory to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection
• Imaging tests: In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to evaluate the kidneys and urinary tract for any abnormalities

Treatment

Treatment for a kidney infection typically involves:

• Antibiotics: Prescription antibiotics are used to treat the bacterial infection. The type and duration of antibiotic treatment depend on the severity of the infection and the type of bacteria causing it
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be recommended to help manage pain and discomfort
• Fluid intake: Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, can help flush out the infection and reduce the risk of complications
• Rest: Getting plenty of rest can help the body recover from the infection

Complications

If left untreated or not properly managed, a kidney infection can lead to complications, such as:

• Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream
• Kidney damage: Repeated or severe infections can cause permanent damage to the kidneys
• Kidney failure: In rare cases, a kidney infection can lead to kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing a kidney infection:

• Practice good hygiene: Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom and wash hands regularly
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to help flush out bacteria
• Urinate when needed: Avoid holding in urine for extended periods
• Avoid using scented soaps or bubble baths: These can irritate the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection
• Wear loose, breathable clothing: Tight clothing can trap moisture and create an environment conducive to bacterial growth