An generated image of the back of a man highlighting the kidneys to represent kidney infections

With March being National Kidney Cancer Awareness Month and with World Kidney Day falling on March 10 this year, we thought it was only appropriate that we round out our blog content with another kidney condition we haven’t yet touched on: kidney infections. A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection that has traveled to one or both of the kidneys. Because the urinary tract is made up of the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys, a UTI that starts in either the urethra or bladder can potentially impact any other part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys. To help provide information relating to causes, symptoms, and treatments, we’re sharing everything you need to know about kidney infections. 

Causes of Kidney Infections

While bladder infections are fairly common, kidney infections are more rare.  A kidney infection typically occurs when bacteria from the bladder travel backwards to the kidneys or very rarely when bacteria in blood take hold in the kidney. Conditions that block flow of urine such as stones or congenital malformations can make kidney infections much more likely. 

Kidney Infection Symptoms

The symptoms of a kidney infection are similar to other kidney conditions, but the intensity of symptoms depends on the severity of the infection. The most commonly reported symptoms include:

  • Problems with urination: this includes frequent or painful urination, cloudy urine, and urine with a bad odor
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Chills and fever
  • A dull aching pain in the sides or back 

How to Treat Kidney Infections

The treatment of a kidney infection first starts with a diagnosis. A doctor will review your symptoms and then take a urinalysis. In a urinalysis, the urine is tested to see if an infection is present. In some situations, a doctor may take a urine or blood culture to understand better what bacteria is causing the infection or if it has traveled from the kidneys to the blood. Once a diagnosis has been established, a kidney infection is almost always treated with antibiotics. In cases where a blockage causes the infection, your doctor may recommend that you take additional steps such as surgery or medication to treat the source of obstruction. For more information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for other kidney conditions, refer to our blog “How a Urologist Can Benefit Your Kidney Health.” (link blog)

Kidney Infection Prevention

Because UTIs are the most common cause of a kidney infection, preventing UTIs is a good way also to prevent a kidney infection. Staying hydrated, urinating after sex, and wiping front to back are some of the simple ways you can avoid developing a UTI. In some cases, people may be more predisposed to getting UTIs, so speak with a urologist at Alliance Urology Specialists if you experience recurring UTIs. 

Make an Appointment

To diagnose and treat any common problem related to the bladder, genitourinary system, or kidneys, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Our team has years of experience treating issues pertaining to the urinary tract and bladder, including kidney infections. If you suspect that you may have a urinary tract infection or are experiencing urological symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment sooner rather than later. Early treatment of a UTI can prevent a kidney infection from occurring. For questions and inquiries, please call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.