Kidney infection symptoms can be difficult to detect as they often mimic symptoms of other illnesses. In this post, we will discuss the most common symptoms of kidney infections so that you can be better informed and seek treatment if necessary. It is important to see a doctor right away if you suspect that you have a kidney infection. If left untreated, these infections can become quite serious.
Overview Of Kidney Infection
A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of upper urinary tract infection. Kidney infection is a serious medical condition that can lead to kidney failure or chronic kidney disease. It occurs when bacteria enter the kidney through the ureters or blood. The kidney then becomes inflamed and can cause damage to the kidney tissue. Symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and pain in the side or back. If you think you have a kidney infection, it is important to see a doctor right away so that you can be treated. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and sometimes hospitalization.
Symptoms Of Kidney Infection
Kidney infections usually start as a urinary tract infection (UTI) in the urethra or bladder. The bladder infection then travels up to the kidneys. A kidney infection may cause long-term damage if not treated promptly.
Most kidney infections have common symptoms, including:
Pain
Kidney infections usually cause sharp pain on one side of your back, often described as flank pain. This pain will usually start in your back, just under your ribs. It may also spread to your abdomen or sides, and you may even feel it in your groin. The pain will usually be quite severe and can come on suddenly.
Abnormal Urine
One of the most common symptoms of a kidney infection is abnormal urine. This can take many different forms, including changing color, consistency, or frequency. In some cases, the urine may contain blood or pus.
Swelling
Another common symptom of a kidney infection is swelling, typically in the feet, ankles, and legs. The swelling occurs because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluid from the body as they normally would. As the fluid builds up, it causes the tissues to expand and results in the characteristic symptom of swelling. In severe cases, the swelling can also affect the hands, arms, face, and abdomen
Fever and Nausea
A common symptom of a kidney infection is high fever, although some patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, and chills. If left untreated, a kidney infection can damage the kidneys and lead to potentially life-threatening complications.
Other symptoms of kidney infections include irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, fatigue, and pain when urinating.
Causes Of Kidney Infections
Kidney infections usually occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and travel to the bladder. The bacteria can then multiply and spread to the kidneys. Because the female urethra is shorter, women are more susceptible to kidney infections than men. Kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can also cause a kidney infection. In addition, people with diabetes or a weak immune system are at increased risk of developing kidney infections.
Risks Of Kidney Infection
A kidney infection is a serious condition that can have harmful consequences if left untreated. Although bacteria are the cause of most kidney infections, they can also be caused by viruses or fungi. If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, it can cause sepsis, which can be fatal. Kidney infections can also damage the kidneys and lead to renal failure or high blood pressure.Â
Diagnosis Of Kidney Infection
A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a bacterial infection that affects the kidneys. The kidneys are a pair of organs located in the upper abdomen, on either side of the spine. Kidney infections often occur when bacteria from another infection, such as urinary tract infections, spread to the kidney. If left untreated, a kidney infection can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis or kidney damage.
Kidney infections are usually diagnosed with a urine test. The healthcare provider will collect a sample of urine and send it to a laboratory for testing. The urine will be checked for the presence of bacteria and white blood cells. In some cases, imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Factors That Might Increase The Risk Of Kidney Infections
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a kidney infection, including:
- Blockages in the urinary tract: Kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, and certain types of birth defects can cause blockages in the urinary tract, which can allow bacteria to enter the kidneys.
- Damaged or weakened immune system: Conditions that impair the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS and diabetes, make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection.
- Use of a catheter: A catheter is a tube that is inserted into the bladder to drain urine. The use of a catheter increases the risk of UTIs, including kidney infections.
- Previous UTI: Having a history of UTIs makes you more susceptible to getting a kidney infection.
Treatment Of Kidney Infection
Most kidney infections are treated with antibiotics. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary so that antibiotics can be given intravenously (through a vein). People with kidney infections may also need pain relief and fluids through an intravenous line. People who have frequent or recurring kidney infections may need long-term antibiotic therapy or surgery to correct structural abnormalities of the kidney.
Final Thoughts
Kidney infections can be serious, and it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible. The most common symptom is pain in the lower back or abdomen, often on one side. Other symptoms may include fever, urinary frequency or urgency, cloudy or bloody urine, and feeling tired or shaky.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away so that you can get started on the appropriate treatment. With prompt treatment, most kidney infections can be effectively resolved without any long-term complications.
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