Kidney Infection Treatment

A kidney infection results from bacteria that enter the body through the urinary tract. It can cause several uncomfortable symptoms and lead to dangerous complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options.

CAUSES

A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). The infection usually starts in the urethra or the bladder. The infection can then travel to one or both kidneys. Kidney infections can also start in another part of the body and spread to the kidneys through the bloodstream. In rare cases, kidney infections can also be caused by an infected artificial joint or heart valve that spreads to the kidneys and a complication from kidney surgery.

SYMPTOMS

When the kidneys are working properly, it cleans the blood and filters water and waste from the blood. Urine travels through the kidneys down to the bladder, where it is later expelled from the urethra. However, when the kidneys are infected, they cannot perform their primary functions. Symptoms of kidney infection include:

  • Abdominal, back, groin, or side pain

  • An enlarged prostate (BPH – benign prostatic hyperplasia)

  • Fever or chills

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Pus or blood in urine

  • Urine that is cloudy or smells

TREATMENTS

After a patient is diagnosed with a kidney infection, it is possible to properly treat the infection and its symptoms. There are multiple treatment options available. The Urology Medical Specialists team designs each treatment plan differently for each treatment. The treatment options depend on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection, the severity of the infection, pre-existing medical conditions, and the patient’s age and medical history.

The first line of treatment for kidney infections is antibiotics. We may administer one type of antibiotic to stop the infection from spreading to the bloodstream and alleviate the patient’s symptoms. After we know the specific type of bacteria causing the infection, we may change the type of antibiotic that will kill said bacteria. In severe cases, the patient may need to stay in the hospital and receive antibiotics through an IV. They will likely also receive medication for the pain.