Kidney Infection

Information Causes and symptoms of a kidney infection When to see a urologist How we diagnose and treat kidney infections Book an appointment

Information

A kidney infection, known medically as pyelonephritis, is caused by bacteria that travel from the area around the rectum through the urinary tract and into the kidneys. Women are more susceptible to kidney infections because the female urethra is shorter than the male urethra and opens closer to the rectum and vagina, both of which carry high levels of bacteria. An acute kidney infection causes a range of unpleasant symptoms and is often accompanied by pain that can be very difficult to bear. Chronic kidney infection tends to present with milder symptoms and may go unnoticed altogether.

Causes and symptoms of a kidney infection

The most common cause of a kidney infection is the bacterium E. coli, which occurs naturally in the large intestine. If it enters the urinary tract and manages to multiply there, it triggers an inflammatory response. Bacteria thrive in urine that is unable to leave the body properly due to some form of obstruction in the urinary tract. Impaired urine drainage and the resulting infections can be linked to reduced bladder emptying function, kidney stones, tumours or a condition known as a horseshoe kidney, where the two kidneys are fused into a single structure.

A kidney infection typically presents with a raised temperature or fever, more frequent and sometimes painful urination, and an unpleasant dull ache in the lower back. The urine may appear cloudy and can contain blood or pus.

When to see a urologist

An acute kidney infection is usually unpleasant enough to bring most people to a doctor fairly quickly. That said, it is also worth seeking medical advice if you notice milder urinary symptoms, such as a slight discomfort when urinating. Do not delay seeing a doctor if blood or any other unusual substances appear in your urine.

People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes should pay particular attention to their kidneys and urinary tract. Diabetes is associated with a weakened immune system and a greater susceptibility to infection, as well as higher sugar levels in the urine, which creates conditions that make it easier for bacteria to multiply.
Left untreated, a kidney infection can in serious cases lead to kidney failure or chronic kidney insufficiency, which, if both kidneys are affected, may require dialysis to replace kidney function.

How we diagnose and treat kidney infections

We diagnose a kidney infection by analysing a urine sample in the laboratory, looking for the presence of bacteria, protein and white and red blood cells. A microbiological analysis identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection, which allows us to select the most appropriate antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics can be supplemented with pain relief, which can be important given that pain during an acute infection is sometimes severe.

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