A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. While many UTIs are confined to the lower urinary tract, it is important to understand that an infection can ascend and reach the kidneys. Recognizing the signs that a UTI may have spread to the kidneys is important for seeking timely medical attention.
Symptoms of a Kidney Infection
When a UTI spreads to the kidneys, it is known as pyelonephritis, and symptoms are typically more severe than a bladder infection. Individuals often experience a high fever, which can sometimes exceed 101°F (38.3°C), accompanied by shaking chills.
Pain commonly localizes in the back or flank area, which is the region on either side of the spine, below the ribs. This pain can be constant or come in waves and is often felt on one side of the body, corresponding to the affected kidney. Nausea and vomiting are also common, contributing to a general feeling of illness or malaise.
These symptoms often develop suddenly, sometimes over a few hours, and can significantly impact daily activities.
How Kidney Infection Symptoms Differ from a Bladder Infection
Symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection, or bladder infection (cystitis), typically involve the act of urination itself. Individuals often experience a frequent and urgent need to urinate, even if only small amounts of urine are passed. Urination can also be painful or accompanied by a burning sensation.
Discomfort is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvic area, rather than the back or sides. The urine may appear cloudy, have a strong odor, or sometimes contain visible blood.
In contrast, a kidney infection presents with more widespread and severe symptoms. While some urinary symptoms might still be present, the defining characteristics of a kidney infection include fever, chills, and pain in the back or flank.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
If you suspect a kidney infection based on fever, chills, or back pain, it is important to seek medical attention without delay. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to prevent complications. Waiting to see if symptoms improve on their own is not advised.
Contacting a doctor, visiting an urgent care facility, or going to an emergency room are appropriate steps. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the condition and initiate the necessary treatment. Self-diagnosis and attempting to treat a suspected kidney infection at home are not effective or safe approaches.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Diagnosing a kidney infection typically begins with a physical examination, where a doctor may check for tenderness in the flank area. Urine tests are a primary diagnostic tool. A urinalysis can detect the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacteria in the urine, indicating an infection.
A urine culture is then performed to identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and determine which antibiotics will be most effective. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for signs of infection, such as an elevated white blood cell count, or to assess kidney function.
Treatment for a kidney infection almost always involves antibiotics. The specific antibiotic chosen depends on the identified bacteria and its susceptibility. The course of antibiotics for a kidney infection is often longer than for a simple bladder infection, typically lasting 10 to 14 days.
In severe cases, or if individuals are unable to keep down oral medications, antibiotics may initially be administered intravenously in a hospital setting. Completing the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, is important to fully eradicate the infection.
Potential Risks of Untreated Kidney Infections
Ignoring or delaying treatment for a kidney infection carries serious risks. An untreated kidney infection can lead to permanent damage to the kidneys, potentially impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood. This damage can result in scarring of the kidney tissue.
The infection can also spread beyond the kidneys into the bloodstream, a condition known as sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that can lead to organ failure and even death.