Kidney Infection: Signs, Causes, Treatment & Prevention
Kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection that spreads to the kidneys. It can hit anyone, but women and people with kidney stones are at higher risk. If you notice fever, back pain, or a burning feeling when you pee, it’s time to act fast. Ignoring it can lead to serious complications, so early detection matters.
What is a Kidney Infection?
A kidney infection starts when bacteria travel up the urethra, into the bladder, and keep climbing until they reach the kidneys. The most common culprit is Escherichia coli, a gut bacterium that often shows up in UTIs. When the infection settles in the kidneys, you feel pain in the flank (the side of your lower back), chills, and sometimes nausea or vomiting.
Besides the classic signs, you might notice cloudy or foul‑smelling urine, and you could have to pee more often. Blood in the urine isn’t unusual either. The infection can make you feel wiped out because your body’s fighting off bacteria, which is why a fever often shows up.
People with certain conditions—like diabetes, urinary blockages, or a weakened immune system—are more likely to get a kidney infection. Even a recent urinary catheter or a recent surgery can open the door for bacteria.
How to Treat and Prevent It
The main treatment is a short course of antibiotics. Your doctor will pick the right one based on the likely bacteria and any recent lab tests. Most people start feeling better within a couple of days, but it’s crucial to finish the whole prescription to avoid a relapse.
If the infection is severe, you might need to stay in the hospital for IV antibiotics and fluids. This helps keep you hydrated and clears the infection faster. In rare cases, especially when there’s an obstruction like a kidney stone, a procedure may be needed to remove the blockage.
Preventing kidney infections is mostly about good urinary habits. Drink enough water—aim for at least eight glasses a day—to flush bacteria out. Don’t hold urine for long periods; go when you feel the urge. If you’re prone to UTIs, consider cranberry juice or supplements, but talk to a doctor first.
For women, wiping front‑to‑back after using the bathroom reduces the chance of moving bacteria toward the urethra. After sex, urinating shortly afterward can also help clear any bacteria that might have been introduced.
Regular medical check‑ups are key if you have risk factors like diabetes or a history of kidney stones. Your doctor may recommend periodic urine tests to catch infections early.
If you ever feel a sudden sharp pain in your back, fever, or a burning sensation while urinating, don’t wait. Call your healthcare provider right away. Early treatment means a quicker recovery and a lower chance of kidney damage.
Keeping your kidneys healthy is a daily effort—stay hydrated, practice good hygiene, and seek help at the first sign of trouble. With these simple steps, you can lower the odds of a kidney infection and keep your kidneys working smoothly.
