Pyelonephritis is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can affect your kidneys. It occurs when bacteria enter your body through the urethra and spread to your bladder and kidneys.
Pyelonephritis can be a severe condition and can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. Here, we will discuss the symptoms and causes of pyelonephritis in detail.
What are the Symptoms of Pyelonephritis?
The symptoms of pyelonephritis can vary from person to person. Some of the common symptoms include:.
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the back or side, just below the rib cage
- Frequent urination
- Burning sensation during urination
- Blood in the urine
In severe cases of pyelonephritis, a person may experience:.
- Confusion or delirium
- Rapid heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advised to immediately consult a doctor.
What are the Causes of Pyelonephritis?
Pyelonephritis is mainly caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli).
This bacteria enters the body through the urethra, and it can travel up to the bladder and kidneys. Pyelonephritis can also be caused by other bacteria, such as Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus, and Proteus mirabilis.
Women are more likely to get pyelonephritis than men because their urethra is shorter, and bacteria can enter the bladder more easily.
In addition, people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV, diabetes, or cancer, are more susceptible to pyelonephritis.
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How is Pyelonephritis Diagnosed?
A doctor may suspect pyelonephritis based on the symptoms a patient is experiencing. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor may order the following tests:.
- Urinalysis, which involves analyzing a urine sample for the presence of bacteria and white blood cells.
- Blood tests, which can detect high levels of white blood cells and other signs of infection.
- Imaging tests, like CT scans or ultrasounds, can help identify any abnormalities or damage to the kidneys.
How is Pyelonephritis Treated?
Pyelonephritis is treated with antibiotics to kill off the bacteria causing the infection.
The type of antibiotic used depends on the severity of the infection, and a doctor may need to adjust the dosage or type of antibiotic depending on the patient’s response to treatment.
A person with pyelonephritis may also need to stay in the hospital for treatment if they have severe symptoms or are at risk of complications.
In the case of severe pyelonephritis, surgery may be necessary to drain the abscesses or remove infected tissue.
How can Pyelonephritis be Prevented?
Some of the ways to prevent pyelonephritis include:.
- Drinking plenty of water to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Urinating regularly to prevent bacteria from building up in the bladder.
- Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
- Avoiding the use of irritating feminine products, like douches and powders, which can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Wearing cotton underwear and clothing that allows air to circulate to prevent moisture from building up in the genital area.
Conclusion
Pyelonephritis is a severe type of urinary tract infection that can affect one’s kidneys. The symptoms of pyelonephritis include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, pain in the back or side, frequent urination, and blood in the urine.
The condition is mainly caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli and can be treated with antibiotics. If you experience any symptoms of pyelonephritis, it is crucial to consult your doctor immediately for prompt treatment.
