Severe Kidney Infection Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Pyelonephritis, or serious kidney infection, is another name for it. Pyelonephritis can cause consequences including kidney damage or sepsis, a potentially fatal infection-related reaction if it is not treated. Antibiotics are normally used in treatment to fight bacterial infection; in more serious circumstances, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotic medication and close observation. Even if your symptoms become better, you must finish the entire course of antibiotics your doctor ordered if you want the infection to be cured.

Common severe kidney infection symptoms

1. High fever: One of the most typical signs of a serious kidney infection is a sustained high temperature (often above 101°F or 38.5°C). The fever may come and go but managing it can become difficult.
2. Flank Pain: A kidney infection commonly manifests as excruciating back or side pain, frequently on one side of the body. This discomfort can be either intense or dull and is typically felt below the ribs.
3. Painful Urination: Kidney infections can cause pain or a burning sensation during urination. There may also be an increased frequency of urination.
4. Blood in Urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a concerning symptom of a kidney infection.
5. Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: Urine from someone with a kidney infection may appear cloudy or have an unpleasant odor.
6. Fatigue: Feeling too exhausted or weak may indicate that the infection is hurting the body.
7. Nausea and Vomiting: Bad kidney infections might make you feel sick to your stomach.
8. Confusion or Mental problems: A severe kidney infection can occasionally cause confusion or mental problems, particularly in elderly people or people with compromised immune systems. The key to avoiding problems and accelerating healing is prompt treatment.
9. Chills and Sweating: Severe kidney infections can cause episodes of chills and excessive sweating. These may accompany the high fever.
10. Rapid Heartbeat: The infection may occasionally cause an elevated heart rate or palpitations.
11. Swelling: The kidneys’ diminished capacity to eliminate extra fluid from the body. The person may have swelling in their hands and feet. Sometimes the swelling also appears on the face.
12. Painful Flank Mass: In severe cases, a kidney infection may lead to the development of an abscess or collection of pus within the kidney. This can cause a painful mass or lump in the flank area.

Potential complications of severe kidney infection

1. Sepsis: A severe kidney infection can develop into sepsis. When the body’s reaction to an infection results in extensive inflammation that impacts numerous organs and systems, sepsis develops.
2. Kidney Abscess: In some instances, the infection can cause the development of a kidney abscess. An abscess is a collection of pus that needs to be drained and treated further.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease: Kidney damage occurs due to severe infections. Kidney function is affected by the degenerative nature of CKD, which may call for continuing medical supervision or dialysis.
4. Kidney Failure: An untreated severe kidney infection can cause kidney failure. Your kidneys will no longer be able to filter waste products. They can’t maintain the proper balance of fluid and electrolytes in the body.
5. Hypertension: Kidney infections can disrupt the kidney’s normal functioning. It can also lead to an imbalance in blood pressure regulation and potentially cause hypertension.

How to manage severe kidney infection symptoms?

Managing severe kidney infection symptoms requires prompt medical attention and proper treatment.

1. Antibiotics: The primary treatment for a kidney infection is a course of antibiotics. It is crucial to take the full course of antibiotics as directed, even if you start feeling better before completing the medication.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out the bacteria from the urinary system. It will help your kidney function. Aim to drink enough fluids, but consult your doctor about the appropriate amount, especially if you have any fluid restrictions.
3. Rest: Provide good rest to your body. Avoid strenuous activities and get sufficient sleep to aid the healing process.
4. Follow Medical Advice: Listen to your healthcare provider’s instructions and adhere to the treatment plan they have recommended. Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make sure the infection is resolved.
5. Warm Compress: If you experience flank pain, applying a warm compress to the affected area may help alleviate discomfort.

It is vital to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect a kidney infection or experience any of the symptoms mentioned earlier. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition, prescribe appropriate antibiotics, and suggest supportive care measures. In addition to antibiotics, your doctor may recommend pain relievers, ample rest, and increased fluid intake to help flush out the infection.  Remember, managing severe kidney infection symptoms requires professional medical evaluation and treatment. Timely intervention can help prevent complications and promote a quicker recovery.