Kidney Infection
What is Kidney Infection ?
A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). A kidney infection may begin in the tube that carries urine from the body (urethra) or in the bladder. The infection can travel to one or both kidneys. A kidney infection is also called pyelonephritis.
A kidney infection needs prompt medical treatment. If not treated properly, an infection can cause lasting damage to the kidneys. Or the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and cause a dangerous infection. Kidney infection treatment often includes antibiotics, which might be given in the hospital.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Chills
- Back, side (flank) or groin pain
- Abdominal pain
- Frequent urination
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation or pain when urinating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pus or blood in your urine (hematuria)
- Urine that smells bad or is cloudy
Cause
Bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra can multiply and travel to your kidneys. This is the most common cause of kidney infections. Bacteria from an infection in another part of the body also can spread through the bloodstream to the kidneys. In rare cases, an artificial joint or heart valve that becomes infected can cause a kidney infection. Rarely, a kidney infection happens after kidney surgery.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for kidney infections include Blockage, Anything that keeps you from emptying the pee out of your urinary tract can allow bacteria to grow and back up into your kidneys. This includes kidney stones, enlarged prostate and uterine prolapse. Pressure on your bladder during pregnancy can also increase your risk. Vesicoureteral reflux, This is a condition where pee goes the wrong way and backs up from your bladder. Conditions that put you at increased risk for infections, These include diabetes, HIV and being on immunosuppressive medications. Your anatomy, Women have a shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to move up to their bladder and kidneys.
When to see a Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis A. Getting a hepatitis A vaccine or an injection of immunoglobulin (an antibody) within two weeks of exposure to hepatitis A may protect you from infection. Ask your doctor or your local health department about receiving the hepatitis A vaccine if you’ve traveled out of the country recently, a restaurant where you recently ate reports a Hepatitis A outbreak, you recently had sexual contact with someone who has hepatitis A, someone close to you, such as a roommate or caregiver, is diagnosed with Hepatitis A.