A kidney infection, known medically as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that typically begins in the bladder and then travels upwards to affect one or both kidneys. This occurs when bacteria, most commonly E. coli, enter the urinary tract. If not addressed promptly, kidney infections can lead to serious health complications.
Prescribed Treatments
Antibiotics are the primary method for treating a kidney infection, as they target and eliminate the bacterial cause. A healthcare provider will determine the specific antibiotic based on the type of bacteria identified and individual patient factors. Common oral antibiotics for kidney infections include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, and certain cephalosporins.
The course of oral antibiotics for a kidney infection ranges from 7 to 14 days. It is important to complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms begin to improve or disappear. Stopping treatment early can lead to the infection returning and may contribute to antibiotic resistance, making future infections more challenging to treat.
In cases of severe kidney infection, or if a person cannot tolerate oral medications, intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be necessary. This often requires hospitalization, where antibiotics are administered directly into a vein. Examples of IV antibiotics used include ertapenem, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ceftriaxone. Alongside antibiotics, pain medication may also be prescribed to help manage discomfort during the recovery period.
Symptom Management
While antibiotics work to clear the infection, various measures can help alleviate the accompanying symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can reduce discomfort and a high temperature. However, individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions or acute kidney injury should exercise caution and consult their doctor before taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, as these can affect kidney function.
Applying a warm compress or a heating pad set on low to the lower back, abdomen, or side can help soothe pain and muscle discomfort. This can provide localized relief while the body fights the infection. While these measures provide comfort, they are not a substitute for prescribed medical treatment. Relying on unproven home remedies or supplements can delay proper treatment and lead to serious complications.
Essential Supportive Measures
Maintaining adequate hydration is essential during recovery from a kidney infection. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, helps flush bacteria from the urinary system and supports overall kidney function. A general guideline is to consume at least 8 to 10 glasses (approximately 2 to 2.5 liters) of water daily, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider due to other medical conditions.
Getting sufficient rest allows the body to conserve energy and focus its resources on fighting the infection and healing. Avoiding certain substances can also aid recovery by reducing irritation to the urinary tract. Alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods are known to irritate the bladder and kidneys, potentially worsening symptoms, and should be avoided until the infection has cleared. Limiting sugary foods and highly processed items is also advisable, as they can contribute to inflammation and stress on the kidneys.
Importance of Medical Follow-up
After completing the prescribed course of treatment, medical follow-up is necessary to ensure the kidney infection has fully resolved. This often involves a repeat urine test to confirm that no bacteria remain. If the infection persists or recurs, additional tests may be conducted, and a different or longer course of antibiotics might be prescribed.
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen or new severe symptoms develop. These include a high fever, severe pain in the back, side, or abdomen, persistent nausea or vomiting, or an inability to keep fluids down. Other concerning signs that warrant urgent care are confusion, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, profuse sweating, or difficulty breathing, as these could indicate sepsis. Sepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that occurs when the infection spreads into the bloodstream.