_Signs,Symptoms&TreatmentOptions24062501155328.webp)
Kidneys are one of the most vital organs in our body. However, there may be certain cases where your kidneys could get infected by UTIs and develop pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis is a type of UTI that spreads to your kidneys and infects them. It is a very serious and underestimated acute condition that can lead to permanent damage to the kidneys, blood infections or even death. Hence, early diagnosis and management are really important. In this blog, we'll discuss everything you need to know about kidney infection (pyelonephritis), kidney infection symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Pyelonephritis disease is a urinary tract infection that targets the kidneys in particular. Bladder infection (cystitis) occurs more frequently and is less serious, but infection of the kidney is a more severe illness that most commonly occurs when bacteria in the bladder or the urethra travel upwards and infect one or both kidneys.
The majority of kidney infection causes are due to infection of the lower urinary tract or bladder. The infection can migrate up through your ureters (the tubes that connect your bladder to your kidneys) and infect kidney tissue.
The main suspect? Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is a type of bacteria that lives in your intestinal tract. Other bacteria, fungi, or viruses can also be the cause, but E. coli is the most common offender by far.
Other risk factors that could trigger or complicate kidney infection causes are:
The earlier you see kidney infection symptoms, the better. These symptoms typically develop in hours or a few days Here are some common kidney infection symptoms:
In older patients, confusion or a change in mental status may be a symptom. In children, symptoms may be more nonspecific and may include fever, irritability, and bedwetting.
Always treat kidney infection symptoms as a medical emergency. They are not the kind of symptoms that you can "wait out" or be treated by home remedies.
To diagnose pyelonephritis, your physician will probably perform the following:
These steps restrict the kidney infection and eliminate other diseases that present overlapping symptoms, e.g., appendicitis or kidney stones.
The treatment varies based on how severe the kidney infection is. The following are the primary options:
1. Oral Antibiotics (for mild to moderate infections)
The simplest kidney infections can be successfully treated with a 7- to 14-day course of antibiotics. Typical choices are:
Your doctor will probably begin treatment before the results of the urine culture are received. Once results are in, the antibiotics can be adjusted according to the true bacteria present.
2. IV Antibiotics and Hospitalisation (severe infections)
If you cannot hold liquids because of vomiting or if symptoms are severe, you might be admitted to the hospital. You will receive intravenous antibiotics and fluids while in the hospital until symptoms are managed.
3. Follow-Up Tests
Your doctor may order follow-up urine tests once you have finished treatment to ensure that the kidney infection has been cleared completely.
Pyelonephritis disease that is not treated can lead to serious complications such as:
This is why it is so vital never to dismiss kidney infection symptoms, no matter how minimal they might be.
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips that would help limit your risk of kidney infection:
In recurrent infections, a doctor can prescribe low-dose antibiotics as prophylaxis.
Visit a doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms:
A kidney infection is not something to ignore or delay treating. Knowing the kidney infection symptoms, understanding the kidney infection causes, and acting fast can save you from serious complications. If you or someone you know has signs of pyelonephritis disease, don’t hesitate; see a doctor right away.
Staying informed is the first step toward protecting your health. Stay hydrated, maintain good hygiene, and never ignore your body’s warning signs. And remember: your kidneys do a lot for you. Hence, you should look after them in return.
If you are worried about any type of kidney problems, then it is always good to get a test done. So, book a kidney profile test with Pathkind and get screened for any problems early. Visit our website and book now!
Discover precision diagnostics with Pathkind Labs, a trusted name in diagnostic services in India. Our NABL accredited labs, equipped with advanced technology, are staffed by a certified team of over 200+ senior pathologists and 2000+ technicians. From tailored health check-ups to specialized tests in Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Nephrology, and more, we've got your health covered. Skip the hassle with online booking for tests or check-ups, available for both lab visits and at-home blood collection. For a seamless experience and early detection, choose Pathkind Labs in Gurugram. Book your appointment today and experience diagnostics made easy.
© 2025 Pathkind Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd. All Rights Reserved | Unsubscribe
Upload Prescription
_Signs,Symptoms&TreatmentOptions24062501155328.webp)
