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Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, can range from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms include burning sensations when urinating, lower back pain, fever, and nausea. Poor hygiene, STDs, and kidney stones can cause infections. Treatment includes antibiotics and good hygiene practices. Severe cases may require hospitalization and surgery.
A kidney infection is an acute disease that usually results from bacteria entering the urethra and migrating to one or both kidneys. Doctors refer to the condition as pyelonephritis, and the severity of an infection can range from mild and barely noticeable to potentially life-threatening. A person experiencing burning sensations when urinating and frequent, sharp lower back pain should visit their doctor right away to be screened for a kidney infection. When the problem is discovered early, it can usually be cured with a course of antibiotics.
A person can get a urinary tract infection in a variety of ways. Poor hygiene can cause fecal bacteria to enter the urethra, especially in women. STDs, unsterilized gynecological instruments, acute injuries to the genitals, and autoimmune diseases can also lead to urethral and kidney infections. Rarely, a kidney stone or other blockage in the urinary tract can irritate the lining of a kidney, increasing the risk of a bacterial infection.
The symptoms of a kidney infection can vary, based on the progression of the disease and the type of bacteria involved. Most cases result in urinary problems, such as burning sensations and frequent urges. Occasionally, blood may be present in the urine. A person may also experience fever, nausea, and vomiting as the infection gets worse. Some individuals suffer from severe pain in the abdomen, groin or lower back. Without treatment, a kidney infection can cause permanent scarring of organ tissue that can ultimately lead to kidney failure.
A primary care physician can usually diagnose a kidney infection by evaluating a patient’s symptoms and collecting blood and urine samples for laboratory analysis. If the doctor is unsure of the underlying cause, he may refer the patient to a nephrologist for further diagnostic testing. A specialist can look at lab results to identify particular bacteria and take an X-ray to check for tissue damage. After making a diagnosis, your doctor can determine the best treatment option.
Infections that cause only mild symptoms are usually treated with oral antibiotics. In addition to prescribing medications, a doctor can explain the importance of good hygiene practices and suggest regular checkups to help prevent future urinary tract problems. Antibiotic treatment is usually effective in eradicating infections in about two weeks.
A patient experiencing severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized and given intravenous fluids and medications to prevent kidney failure. If kidney failure is likely, doctors may decide to conduct emergency surgical procedures. With immediate treatment and several months of follow-up care, most patients are able to recover without any permanent health problems.
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