A kidney infection can feel scary, especially if you are not sure what is happening in your body. The good news is that most kidney infections respond well to prompt medical care. Knowing the symptoms early can help you get treatment before things get worse.
What Is a Kidney Infection?
A kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis, happens when bacteria travel from your bladder up into one or both kidneys. It is a type of urinary tract infection that has spread further than a simple bladder infection. Because the kidneys filter waste from your blood, an infection here needs attention right away.
Common Symptoms of a Kidney Infection
Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include several of the following:
- Fever, sometimes with chills or shaking
- Pain in your back, side, or groin, often on one side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Frequent, urgent, or painful urination
- Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
- Urine that smells unusual
- Feeling tired or generally unwell
Not everyone experiences every symptom. Some people notice mild discomfort at first, while others feel quite sick within a day or two.
How Is It Different From a Bladder Infection?
A bladder infection usually causes burning during urination and a frequent urge to go, without fever or back pain. When bacteria move up to the kidneys, symptoms tend to become more intense and can include fever, chills, and pain higher up in your back or side. If a bladder infection does not improve, or you develop fever and back pain, it may have progressed to a kidney infection.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Contact a healthcare provider promptly if you notice fever combined with back or side pain, or if urinary symptoms do not improve within a day or two. A kidney infection is treatable, but it is important not to wait too long, since untreated infections can sometimes lead to more serious complications.
Seek emergency care right away if you experience high fever, confusion, severe pain, a rapid heartbeat, or you are unable to keep fluids down. These can be signs of a more serious infection that needs urgent treatment.
How Are Kidney Infections Treated?
Treatment for a kidney infection is decided by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, health history, and lab results. Many people feel better within a few days of starting appropriate care, though it is important to complete the full course your provider recommends. Drinking plenty of water and resting can also support your recovery.
How Associated Nephrology Consultants Can Help
If you are dealing with repeated urinary tract infections, kidney infections, or you simply want a specialist to check on your kidney health, our team at Associated Nephrology Consultants is here for you. We combine quality care, compassion, and innovation to help patients across Maplewood and the greater Saint Paul, Minnesota area feel confident about their kidney health.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please talk with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms and treatment options.
Associated Nephrology Consultants (ANC)
1997 Sloan Place, Suite 17, Maplewood, MN 55117
Phone: 651-772-6251
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Website:Â ancmn.com
