Pyelonephritis is a type of kidney infection that affects the renal pelvis, the ureter, and the kidney tissue. It is most commonly caused by bacteria, such as E. coli, and can be a serious condition if left untreated.

Recognizing the symptoms of pyelonephritis is crucial to seeking medical attention and preventing complications.

1. Pain in the Back or Flank

One of the most common symptoms of pyelonephritis is pain in the back or flank area, which is located between the hip and the ribs. The pain can be mild to severe and may be accompanied by fever and chills.

This is caused by inflammation and swelling in the kidney tissue and can be felt on one or both sides of the body.

2. Frequent or Painful Urination

Pyelonephritis can also cause frequent or painful urination, which is another common symptom. A person may feel the urge to urinate more often than usual and may experience pain or burning during urination.

This is caused by irritation and inflammation in the bladder and can be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can lead to pyelonephritis.

3. Blood in the Urine

In addition to pain and discomfort while urinating, pyelonephritis can also cause blood in the urine. This can be a sign of kidney damage or injury, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and nausea.

Blood in the urine should always be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out more serious conditions.

4. Fever and Chills

Fever and chills are common symptoms of pyelonephritis, and may be an indication of a bacterial infection. A person may experience a high fever, which is a temperature higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, and may also experience chills and sweats.

This is a sign that the body is trying to fight off the infection and should be addressed immediately.

5. Nausea and Vomiting

Pyelonephritis can also cause nausea and vomiting, which can be a sign of more serious complications. A person may feel nauseous and may vomit due to the infection and inflammation in the kidneys.

This can also lead to dehydration, which can further complicate the condition and should be addressed immediately.

6. Fatigue and Weakness

Fatigue and weakness are also common symptoms of pyelonephritis, and may be a sign of a more severe infection. A person may feel tired and weak due to the strain on the body from fighting off the infection.

If the infection is left untreated, this can also lead to anemia, which can further worsen the symptoms.

7. Confusion or Delirium

In rare cases, pyelonephritis can cause confusion or delirium, which can be a sign of a more severe infection. This is due to the infection spreading to the bloodstream and affecting the brain.

A person may experience confusion, disorientation, and may have difficulty concentrating or communicating.

8. Rapid Heartbeat and Breathing

In severe cases of pyelonephritis, a person may experience a rapid heartbeat and breathing, which can be a sign of sepsis, a life-threatening condition.

This occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream and causes the body’s immune system to enter overdrive. If left untreated, sepsis can lead to organ failure and death.

9. Joint Pain and Swelling

Pyelonephritis can also cause joint pain and swelling, which can be a sign of a more severe infection or a complication of the condition. A person may experience pain and swelling in the joints, particularly in the knees and ankles.

This is caused by inflammation and swelling in the body’s tissues and should be evaluated by a medical professional.

10. Difficulty Breathing

In severe cases of pyelonephritis, a person may also experience difficulty breathing, which can be a sign of a severe infection or sepsis. This occurs when the lungs become inflamed and infected, making it difficult to breathe properly.

If left untreated, this can lead to respiratory failure and death.