Explanation of Kidney and Urinary Tract Infection

Kidney infection is a specific type of unitary tract infection, UTI, that usually begins in the urethra or bladder and travels up into the kidneys, according to the Mayo Clinic website (mayoclinic.com). Kidney infection can cause permanent kidney damage if it is not treated properly. Kidney infection can become a life threatening infection if it spreads into the bloodstream. Kidney infections should receive prompt medical attention.

The urinary system consists of kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The urinary system works to remove waste from the body. The kidneys filter waste from the blood, adjust blood levels of many substances and conserve or excrete water from the system. Ureters are tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The bladder stores the urine until it exits the body through the urethra. Kidney infection generally begin when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and start to multiply

Kidney infections can cause many signs and symptoms, including: frequent urination, strong urge to urinate, persistent urge to urinate, pain or burning sensation with urination, abdominal pressure or pain, cloudy urine, strong odor in urine, pus or blood in urine, inability to urinate, need to urinate at night, pain in the back, side or groin and/or fever.

Severe infection of the kidneys may also include: high fever (over 101F), shaking chills, night sweats, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting and confusion.

Infants may show signs of kidney infection which include: irritability, loss of appetite, loose bowels movements and bed-wetting (new episodes).

Anyone can get a kidney infection, but certain factors can increase the risk. Women have a greater risk than men do because of their anatomy. Hormonal change due to pregnancy or menopause increase woman's risk. Sexually active women tend to get more UTI's because sex can push bacteria up in the the urethra. Birth control methods, such s diaphragms and spermicides increase risk for sexually active women as well.

In men, an enlarged prostrate can increase risk of kidney disease.

Men and women both have increased risk of kidney infection with anything that impedes the flow of urine, such as kidney stone. Diseases that impair the immune system, such as cancer, diabetes, HIV or AIDS can increase kidney infection risk. Spinal cord injuries, catheters, and certain medications are all factors that can increase risk.

Kidney infection can be serious. A doctor should be consulted as soon as possible. The doctor may order a urine test to determine whether there is blood, bacteria or pus in the urine. There is no simple test to determine whether an infection is cystitis (bladder infection) or in the kidney. Presence of fever and pain in the upper back suggest that the infection extends into the kidneys.

Untreated kidney infection can lead to serious complications, such as blood poisoning, which is a life threatening disease. or to permanent kidney damage.

Treatment for kidney infection typically includes antibiotics. The most commonly prescribed drugs include amoxicillin, nitrofurantoin, trimoehtoprim, Cipro, Noroxin or Bactrim. The doctor determines which is the best antibiotic depending upon the results of the urine test.

Recurrent, or severe infections may require a referral to specialist, such as a urologist.

Prevention steps can be taken to reduce risk of kidney infection. Prevention tips include drinking plenty of water, frequent urination to avoid retaining urine, urinating after intercourse, showering instead of bathing, keeping the genital area clean using mild soaps, wiping from front to back after bowel movement and avoiding feminine products.

In order to reduce pain or discomfort while recovering from a kidney infection place a heating pad on the abdomen, back or side. Pain medication, such as Tylenol, or acetaminophen, can be taken as directed by doctor. stay hydrated by drinking fluids that flush out the bacteria. Avoid coffee, citrus juices, soft drinks or alcohol.

Talk to the doctor about symptoms of any urinary tract infection.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical condition, consult a physician.