Kidney Infection

The term kidney infection is a generic term used to describe infection of the kidney of several types; bacteria, fungal, and viral.

A kidney infection requires prompt medical attention. If not treated properly, it can permanently damage your kidneys or spread to your bloodstream and cause a life-threatening infection. Kidney infection treatment usually includes antibiotics and sometimes requires hospitalization.

Causes
Kidney infections typically occur when bacteria enter your urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply. Bacteria from an infection elsewhere in your body also can spread through your bloodstream to your kidneys. Rarely, an infection can occur when a foreign body enters the body such as an artificial joint or heart valve.

These infections of bacteria can be caused by:

  • Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) refers to a condition in which urine flows from the bladder, back up the ureter, and back into the kidneys.
  • A bladder infection (lower urinary tract infection).

Symptoms
Symptoms of a kidney infection could include any or several of the following:

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Frequent Urination
  • Chills
  • Blood in Urine
  • Flank Pain
  • Painful Urination
  • Urinary Urgency
  • Confusion
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Odor of Urine