Understanding Pyelonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pyelonephritis is a severe infection that affects the kidneys. It is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) explicitly targeting the kidneys. Unlike a regular UTI, which affects the bladder or urethra, pyelonephritis can cause severe complications if left untreated. It occurs when bacteria enter the kidneys through the bloodstream or ascend from the bladder through the ureters.

Understanding the difference between a kidney infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI)

A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). While bacteria cause both kidney infections and UTIs, they affect different parts of the urinary system. A UTI usually starts in the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and urethra. If left untreated, the infection can travel to the kidneys and develop into pyelonephritis. The main difference between a kidney infection and a UTI is the severity and location of the infection. Pyelonephritis specifically targets the kidneys and requires immediate medical attention. While the symptoms of a kidney infection and a lower UTI can be similar, the kidney infection is more likely to abruptly make you feel sick, give you a fever, or cause pain in your side or lower back.

Pyelonephritis Causes

Pyelonephritis is primarily caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli). This bacterium enters the urinary tract and reaches the kidneys, leading to infection. Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella, Proteus, and Pseudomonas, can also cause pyelonephritis, although less frequently. In some cases, the condition may be due to a structural abnormality in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or an obstruction, which creates an environment for bacteria to thrive.

Risk factors for developing pyelonephritis

Certain factors increase the risk of developing pyelonephritis:

• Women are more prone to urinary tract infections, which can progress to pyelonephritis.
• having a weakened immune system
• urinary tract abnormalities
• urinary catheterization
• kidney stones
• conditions that hinder urine flow, such as an enlarged prostate in men
• a history of recurrent UTIs

Symptoms and signs of pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis symptoms including:

• fever
• chills
• back or side pain
• frequent urination
• painful urination
• cloudy or bloody urine
• a general feeling of discomfort
• malaise
• nausea
• vomiting
• high fever

It is important to note that the symptoms may vary from person to person, and some individuals may have mild symptoms or be asymptomatic.

Complications of untreated pyelonephritis

If left untreated, pyelonephritis can lead to severe complications. The infection can spread to the bloodstream, causing a condition known as sepsis, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, untreated pyelonephritis can cause kidney damage, leading to chronic pyelonephritis. Chronic pyelonephritis can result in kidney scarring, reduced kidney function, and kidney failure. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications.

Diagnosis of pyelonephritis

To diagnose pyelonephritis, healthcare professionals may perform various pyelonephritis treatment and related tests.

These include:

• a physical examination to assess symptoms
• a urine analysis to check for the presence of bacteria and white blood cells
• urine culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
• imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be conducted to evaluate the kidneys and identify any structural abnormalities.

Treatment options for pyelonephritis

The treatment of pyelonephritis typically involves antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotics is based on the severity of the infection and the susceptibility of the bacteria. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to administer intravenous antibiotics. Antibiotics, pain medications, and fever reducers may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. It is essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is entirely eradicated.

What are the medications for pyelonephritis?

Your provider may prescribe one or a combination of antibiotics to treat a kidney infection. They may include:

• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX).
• Amoxicillin or Augmentin.
• Ceftriaxone or cephalexin.
• Ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin.

Prevention and self-care tips for avoiding pyelonephritis

You can take several measures to reduce the risk of developing pyelonephritis, such as:

• Maintaining good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back after using the bathroom
• Staying hydrated
• Urinating frequently
• Avoiding irritating substances, such as harsh soaps or feminine hygiene products
• Individuals with recurrent UTIs may benefit from preventive antibiotics as their healthcare provider prescribes.

Pyelonephritis is a severe infection that affects the kidneys and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Understanding the difference between a kidney infection and a UTI is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment. Individuals can seek medical attention and receive the appropriate treatment by recognizing the symptoms and risk factors associated with pyelonephritis. It is important to remember that prevention and self-care are vital in reducing the risk of developing pyelonephritis.