The Symptoms & Causes Of A Kidney Infection

Many individuals may be aware of a urinary tract infection or might have had one at some point in their lifetime, but many do not know what a kidney infection is and the complications it can lead to, including death. Learn now about the signs and symptoms all individuals should be aware of, who is at risk for developing this condition, and the treatments available for patients, to ensure you or a loved one receive the proper medical attention to treat this possibly fatal illness!

What Is A Kidney Infection?

The primary function of the kidneys is to clean and remove waste as well as excess water from the blood. The kidneys are part of the urinary tract, which makes urine and removes it along with waste from the body. To put it into perspective, the urinary tract is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, and if any of these parts get bacteria in them, it can lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is a bladder infection,. However, if bacteria travel to the ureters, it can develop into a kidney infection, which is a very serious problem.

Pyelonephritis, also commonly known as a kidney infection, is a type of UTI that usually begins in the urethra or bladder and travels to one or both kidneys, and requires immediate medical attention. If a kidney infection is not treated properly or is treated ineffectively, it can lead to permanent damage to one or both kidneys or the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and result in a life-threatening infection. Treatment for a kidney infection typically includes antibiotics, but in some severe cases, may require hospitalization.