What is kidney failure?
Kidney failure happens when the kidneys lose the ability to function effectively to filter the waste from the blood. Some of the factors which interfere with your kidney health and function are:
- Severe dehydration
- Acute and chronic diseases
- Toxic exposure to toxic pollutants
- Certain medications
- Kidney trauma
What are the types of kidney diseases?
There are 2 types
- Chronic kidney disease: these are the longstanding disorders that causes renal failure
- Acute Kidney disease: It is a condition in which kidneys cannot filter suddenly the wastage from the blood
How to know you have kidney infection?
To see whether you have a kidney infection, doctors might do tests, like:
- Urine tests to look for bacteria or different indications of infection, like white blood cells, in your urine
- Blood tests
- Imaging tests to look at your kidneys like a X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan
- Rectal exam for men, where the specialist places a gloved, lubricated finger into the anus to check whether the prostate organ is enlarged and hinders the flow of urine.
Kidney failure treatment
- Dialysis
- Kidney transplant
- Kidney failure diet
- Low sodium and potassium
- Limit phosphorous
- Follow protein guidelines
Seek treatment immediately
It is vital to seek clinical treatment for a kidney infection as quickly as possible don't wait for it to disappear on its own. Kidney infections that are not treated soon enough can cause long-lasting kidney damage or can spread to different parts of your body and cause a much more serious infection, like a infection in your blood (sepsis), which can be deadly.
How to prevent kidney infections?
You might be able to lower your possibility of getting a kidney infection by:
- Drinking a lot of water
- Urinating when you want to
- Urinating after having sex
- Wiping off front to back after going to the bathroom if you are a woman. This assists with keeping bacteria from your vagina or anus from getting into your urethra.
- Keeping away from the utilization of deodorant sprays or douches in your genital region
If you have pain, talk to your doctor about taking over-the-counter pain medicines. You can also use a heating pad to help with pain. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water.
Frequently asked questions on Kidney Infections
What is a kidney infection?
A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that occurs when bacteria infect the kidneys.
What are the symptoms of a kidney infection?
Common symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and flank pain or tenderness in the side of the back. In severe cases, symptoms can include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
How is a kidney infection diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including urine culture and sensitivity tests.
What causes a kidney infection?
Kidney infections are usually caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra and ascend to the kidneys.
How is a kidney infection treated?
Mild cases of kidney infections may be treated with antibiotics and pain relief medications. More severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and supportive care.
Can I prevent kidney infections?
Yes, you can take steps to prevent kidney infections by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom or before eating. You should also:
- Urinate when you feel the need to
- Avoid tight clothing that can trap moisture
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Can I have a kidney infection without knowing it?
Yes, some people may not experience symptoms of a kidney infection, especially if it is mild. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you have symptoms of a UTI or have risk factors for developing a kidney infection.
How long does it take for antibiotics to work for a kidney infection?
Antibiotics typically start working within 24-48 hours of treatment. However, it's important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure the infection is fully cleared.
Can I have long-term effects from a kidney infection?
Yes, if left untreated or poorly treated, kidney infections can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and potentially lead to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure.
