Kidney infection (Pyelonephritis)

What is a kidney infection?

A kidney infection is one type of urinary tract infection (UTI). It may begin in a different part of the urinary tract, such as the urethra (tube that carries urine from the body) or bladder, and travel to one or both kidneys.

What causes a kidney infection?

Kidney infections are usually caused by bacteria. The bacteria can spread to the kidneys from a bacterial infection in the bladder.

You may be at a higher risk of getting a kidney infection if:

• you are female
• you have diabetes
• you have a blockage in your urinary tract
• you have a structural problem with your urinary tract
• you have a urinary catheter
• you have an enlarged prostate

What are the symptoms of a kidney infection?

If you have a kidney infection, you might have:

• kidney pain, which you feel in your back or your side
• nausea and vomiting
• fevers and chills
• smelly, cloudy or bloody urine
• a burning pain when you pass urine
• a need to pass urine more often than usual

When should I see my doctor?

You should see your doctor if you have symptoms of a kidney infection, as you will usually need treatment with antibiotics.

How is a kidney infection diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine you. If they suspect you have a kidney infection, they may refer you for some tests. A urine test can help clarify whether there is an infection in your urinary tract.

You may need an ultrasound to make sure there is no blockage in your urinary tract. You might also have blood tests to check for infection in your blood.

How is a kidney infection treated?

If you have a kidney infection, you might need to start your treatment in hospital. At first, antibiotics are given through a drip (IV – intravenous drip). When your symptoms have improved enough, you can take your antibiotics orally (by mouth), which can be done at home.

If you are in pain, paracetamol may provide some relief. You can also ask your doctor what else might help.

If a blockage in your urinary tract has caused the kidney infection, you might need surgery urgently to correct the blockage.

How can I prevent a kidney infection?

You can reduce your risk of getting a kidney infection by drinking plenty of water and by seeing your doctor if you think you have a urinary tract infection.

If you tend to get urinary tract infections after having sex, then make sure you pass urine as soon as possible after sex.