Kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that generally starts in the bladder or urethra and then spreads to one or both kidneys.

It is a serious health condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of kidney infection and the available treatments.

Symptoms of Kidney Infection

The symptoms of kidney infection can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:.

Fever and Chills

A high fever, usually over 100.4°F (38°C), is one of the most common symptoms of kidney infection. This is often accompanied by chills, where you may feel cold and shiver even when the temperature outside is warm.

Pain in the Back or Side

Kidney infections can cause pain in the back or side of the body, especially around the affected area. This can be a dull or sharp pain, depending on the severity of the infection.

Urinary Symptoms

People with kidney infections may also experience urinary symptoms, such as a frequent or urgent need to urinate, painful urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. Some people may also notice blood in their urine.

Nausea and Vomiting

Kidney infections can also cause nausea and vomiting due to the body’s response to the infection. These symptoms can also be accompanied by loss of appetite and general fatigue.

Treatment for Kidney Infection

If you suspect that you have a kidney infection, it’s important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Your doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection from your body.

The type of antibiotics that you receive will depend on the severity of your infection and any other factors that may need to be taken into account, such as allergies or other medical conditions.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished.

Along with antibiotics, you may also need to take pain relievers to help manage any discomfort caused by the infection.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful, but your doctor may prescribe stronger medication if necessary.

In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for people with severe kidney infections that are causing complications.

This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems, as they are more vulnerable to serious complications from the infection.

Preventing Kidney Infections

While kidney infections can be serious, there are steps that you can take to help prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips for reducing your risk of kidney infections:.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough fluids, especially water, can help flush bacteria out of your body and reduce your risk of infections.

Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and supplement your fluid intake with other hydrating beverages like herbal tea or low-sugar fruit juice.

Practice Good Hygiene

Washing your hands regularly and keeping your genital area clean can help prevent the spread of bacteria that can cause kidney infections.

Additionally, always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the urethra.

Pee Frequently

Try to avoid holding in urine for long periods of time, as this can allow bacteria to build up in your bladder and increase your risk of infections.

When you feel the urge to urinate, go as soon as possible and try to empty your bladder completely each time.

Avoid Irritants

Avoid using harsh soaps, lotions, or other products that can irritate your genital area and increase your risk of infections.

Additionally, try to avoid using spermicides or vaginal douches, as these can also increase your risk of urinary tract infections.

Good Overall Health

Eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help keep your immune system strong, which can reduce your risk of infections.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to infections.

Conclusion

Kidney infections can be a serious health condition, but prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to a better outcome. If you are experiencing symptoms of a kidney infection, seek medical attention right away.

Preventing kidney infections is also possible by following healthy habits like staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining good overall health.