Kidney Infections

Pyelonephritis is a urinary tract infection that generally begins in the urethra or bladder and travels to one or both kidneys.

A kidney infection requires quick medical attention. If kidney infections are not treated properly, they can permanently damage your kidneys, and the bacteria can move to your bloodstream and cause a lethal infection.

Pyelonephritis treatment, which usually includes antibiotics, might also require hospitalisation.

Pyelonephritis Symptoms

The symptoms of pyelonephritis include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Back, side or groin pain
• Abdominal pain
• Frequent urination
• Strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Burning sensation or pain when urinating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pus or blood in your urine
• Urine that smells bad or is cloudy

Make an appointment with Dr Mkhize if you have worrisome signs or symptoms. For example, make an appointment if you're being treated for a urinary tract infection, but your signs and symptoms aren't improving.

More severe kidney infections can lead to life-threatening complications. You need to receive immediate medical attention if you have these symptoms combined with bloody urine or nausea and vomiting.