6 Most Common Symptoms of Kidney Infections and What They Mean

Kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, can cause significant discomfort and, if not addressed promptly, lead to serious health issues. The symptoms of kidney infection are often mistaken for those of a urinary tract infection (UTI), but they tend to be more severe and can escalate quickly.

Recognizing the early signs is vital in preventing the infection from spreading or causing long-term damage to your kidneys. This article outlines the six most common symptoms of a kidney infection, shedding light on their importance and what they mean for your overall health. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or more severe symptoms, knowing what to look for can help you seek medical attention at the right time.

Understanding Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)

A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects one or both of your kidneys. It occurs when bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), travel up the urinary tract, from the bladder or urethra, to the kidneys, causing an infection. This can result in inflammation and damage to the renal tissue. Kidney infections are more severe than lower UTIs, and if left untreated, they can lead to serious complications like kidney damage, sepsis, or even organ failure.

Difference Between Lower UTIs and Kidney Infections

The urinary tract is divided into two main parts: the lower urinary tract (urethra and bladder) and the upper urinary tract (ureters and kidneys). While lower UTIs typically affect the bladder and urethra, kidney infections involve the kidneys themselves.

• Lower UTIs (Cystitis): These infections occur in the bladder and urethra and are usually less severe. They often cause symptoms such as burning during urination, frequent and urgent need to urinate, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
• Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis): When a lower UTI is left untreated or not completely resolved, bacteria can travel up the ureters to infect the kidneys. Kidney infections are much more serious and often cause symptoms like high fever, chills, flank pain (pain in the side or back), nausea, vomiting, and more severe changes in urination.

Causes of Kidney Infections

The most common cause of kidney infections is bacterial infections, with E. coli being responsible for about 80-90% of cases. E. coli is a type of bacteria normally found in the intestines but can enter the urinary tract through the urethra. Once the bacteria enter the urinary system, they can multiply in the bladder, causing a bladder infection (cystitis). If not treated, the infection can spread to the kidneys, resulting in pyelonephritis.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a kidney infection:

• Female Anatomy: Women are more likely to get kidney infections due to the shorter length of the urethra, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.
• Urinary Tract Obstructions: Conditions like kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or other obstructions in the urinary tract can block the flow of urine, allowing bacteria to grow and travel upward.
• Weakened Immune System: People with conditions such as diabetes, HIV, or those on immunosuppressive medications are more vulnerable to infections, including kidney infections.
• Urinary Catheters: Long-term use of urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and increase the risk of kidney infections.
• Sexual Activity: Sexual activity can push bacteria from the genital area into the urethra, increasing the likelihood of UTIs that can progress to kidney infections.

In summary, kidney infections are a more serious form of UTI that occurs when bacteria move from the bladder to the kidneys, often resulting in severe symptoms. Recognizing the difference between lower UTIs and kidney infections is crucial for prompt and effective treatment.

6 Most Common Symptoms of Kidney Infection

The symptoms of kidney infection are often intense and can indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical attention. Kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, occur when bacteria spread from the lower urinary tract to the kidneys. The six most common symptoms of kidney infection include high fever with chills, pain in the flank or back, nausea and vomiting, painful or frequent urination, profound fatigue, and mental confusion, particularly in older adults. These symptoms of kidney infection suggest that the infection has escalated beyond the lower urinary tract and is now affecting the kidneys, prompting a significant immune response from the body.

In most cases, kidney infections can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage, sepsis, and long-term health problems if not treated promptly. Recognizing the symptoms of kidney infection early on is essential for preventing these severe outcomes. By being aware of these key symptoms of kidney infection, you can take the necessary steps to seek medical attention right away and reduce the risk of complications.

Why Do Fever, Chills, and Body Aches Accompany a Kidney Infection?

Fever, chills, and body aches are some of the most common symptoms of kidney infection, and they occur as a result of the body’s systemic immune response to bacterial invasion. When bacteria, like Escherichia coli, enter the kidneys and multiply, they release harmful endotoxins into the bloodstream. These toxins trigger the immune system to release signaling molecules called cytokines.

Cytokines act as pyrogens, traveling to the hypothalamus in the brain, which controls the body’s temperature regulation. In response to the pyrogens, the hypothalamus increases the body’s core temperature, causing fever. The fever is a protective mechanism that helps slow down bacterial growth and enhances the body’s immune response.

In addition to fever, the body attempts to generate heat through chills. The shivering response produces rapid muscle contractions, which raise body temperature to the new set point established by the hypothalamus. Along with these symptoms, body aches (myalgia) can occur as a result of the circulating cytokines. These chemical signals, which are responsible for inflammation, can cause widespread muscle and joint pain similar to what one might experience during the flu or another viral infection. The presence of fever, chills, and body aches indicates that the infection is no longer localized to the urinary tract and is now causing a broader inflammatory response throughout the body.

What Does Sharp Pain in the Back, Side (Flank), or Groin Signify?

Sharp pain in the back, side (flank), or groin is a hallmark symptom of kidney infection and is typically felt when the kidney becomes inflamed or swollen due to the infection. This pain is often described as a constant, deep ache that can be quite severe. It occurs because the kidneys are located in the upper abdomen, behind the rib cage, and are surrounded by a fibrous capsule. This capsule is richly supplied with nerve fibers, which makes it sensitive to stretching.

When a kidney becomes infected, the tissue swells due to the buildup of fluid and immune cells. As the kidney swells, it stretches the renal capsule, triggering pain receptors and causing discomfort in the back and side. The pain can be sharp and constant, particularly in the costovertebral angle (CVA), which is located between the lowest rib and the spine. A doctor may test for CVA tenderness by gently tapping on the area to elicit pain, a positive sign of kidney inflammation.

In addition to flank pain, the infection can also radiate to the groin or lower abdomen. This occurs if the infection or cyst obstructs the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder), which can cause referred pain. As the kidneys become more inflamed, the pain can worsen, making it a distinguishing characteristic of a kidney infection. This type of pain is a serious symptom of kidney infection that should not be ignored, as it often indicates a more advanced infection.

Why Nausea and Vomiting Occur with Symptoms of Kidney Infection

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of kidney infection due to the body’s systemic response to the infection, the intense pain it causes, and the effect of bacterial toxins on the central nervous system. These gastrointestinal symptoms are indicators of the severity of the infection and its ability to disrupt systems beyond the urinary tract.

The connection between kidney infections and nausea is multifaceted. The severe flank pain that accompanies a kidney infection is a potent trigger for a reflex in the autonomic nervous system, which can stimulate the vomiting center in the brainstem. The body often responds to intense visceral pain with nausea as a protective reflex.

Furthermore, the same systemic inflammatory response that causes fever also contributes to gastrointestinal distress. The influx of cytokines and bacterial toxins into the bloodstream can directly irritate the stomach lining and affect the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the brain. The CTZ detects emetic (vomit-inducing) substances in the blood, and when stimulated, signals the vomiting center. This reaction is the body’s attempt to expel perceived toxins.

In severe cases of pyelonephritis (kidney infection), kidney function may become temporarily impaired, leading to a buildup of waste products like urea in the blood, which can further contribute to nausea. Therefore, nausea and vomiting during a suspected kidney infection serve as significant red flags. They indicate that the infection is no longer a minor issue but a major systemic illness causing widespread disruption and physiological stress.

Changes in Urination: A Key Indicator of Symptoms of Kidney Infection

Changes in urination, such as a burning sensation, increased frequency and urgency, and cloudy or bloody urine, are key symptoms of kidney infection, as they typically signify a lower urinary tract infection (UTI) that has ascended to the kidneys. These urinary changes are the body’s way of signaling the presence of infection in the urinary system and reflect the pathway the bacteria took to reach the kidneys.

The most common route for kidney infections is an ascending infection, where bacteria enter through the urethra and initially colonize the bladder (a condition known as cystitis). The classic symptoms of cystitis include:

• Dysuria: A painful or burning sensation during urination, caused by urine passing over the inflamed and irritated lining of the urethra.
• Frequency and Urgency: A constant, overwhelming need to urinate, even when the bladder is not full. This occurs due to irritation in the bladder, triggering nerve signals that compel the brain to empty the bladder.
• Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: The cloudy appearance (pyuria) results from the presence of white blood cells (pus) and bacteria that the body is shedding as it fights the infection.
• Hematuria: The presence of blood in the urine, which can give it a pink, red, or cola-colored appearance. This is due to the erosion of delicate blood vessels in the lining of the bladder or urinary tract caused by inflammation.

When these lower urinary tract symptoms are followed or accompanied by systemic signs like fever and flank pain, it strongly suggests that the bacteria have ascended through the ureters to infect the kidneys. Essentially, these urinary changes are the “footprints” of the infection, revealing its progression from a localized bladder issue to a more serious kidney infection.

Is Persistent Fatigue and Weakness a Sign of Symptoms of Kidney Infection?

Yes, persistent fatigue and profound weakness are significant symptoms of kidney infection, reflecting the immense metabolic energy the body expends in combating a serious systemic infection. These symptoms reveal the substantial toll that the immune response is taking on the body’s overall resources.

Fighting a severe kidney infection like pyelonephritis requires an intense and coordinated effort from the immune system, which must rapidly produce vast numbers of white blood cells, antibodies, and inflammatory proteins called cytokines. This entire process is incredibly energy-intensive, diverting glucose and other nutrients away from normal bodily functions and toward the immune defense.

This metabolic reprioritization is a primary driver of the overwhelming fatigue commonly experienced with symptoms of kidney infection. The body is entering a state of controlled stress to prioritize survival, which can lead to prolonged weakness. The same cytokines responsible for fever and body aches also signal the brain to induce feelings of lethargy and malaise, making it harder to focus or perform daily tasks.

This biologically adaptive response is designed to encourage rest, conserving energy for fighting the pathogens. Additionally, symptoms like fever, pain, and frequent urination can disrupt sleep, preventing the body from getting the restorative rest it needs. Dehydration, resulting from fever or vomiting, can also exacerbate feelings of weakness and fatigue.

Therefore, this debilitating tiredness is not merely a minor inconvenience. It is a clear physiological indicator that your body is engaged in a major battle, dedicating a significant portion of its energy reserves to overcoming the infection. The persistent fatigue that accompanies symptoms of kidney infection is a key signal that the body is under stress and requires immediate medical attention.

Confusion or Altered Mental State

Confusion or an altered mental state, particularly in older adults, can indicate a very severe kidney infection, which may be progressing to urosepsis, a life-threatening condition. This symptom reveals that the effects of the infection are impacting brain function, signaling a medical emergency. The brain is highly sensitive to changes in the body’s internal environment. In severe infections like pyelonephritis, several factors converge to cause delirium or confusion, making it a critical sign of a worsening condition.

The systemic inflammatory response floods the body with cytokines, some of which can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause neuroinflammation, directly impairing cognitive function. Additionally, bacterial toxins circulating in the bloodstream can also have a direct effect on the brain, further exacerbating confusion. Dehydration from fever and vomiting can lead to electrolyte imbalances (such as low sodium) and reduced blood flow to the brain, contributing to cognitive issues. In older adults, the blood-brain barrier is more permeable, and their baseline cognitive reserve is often lower, making them more susceptible to infection-induced delirium.

For many elderly individuals, sudden confusion may be one of the first and most noticeable signs of a severe kidney infection, as classic symptoms like high fever or localized pain can sometimes be absent or less pronounced. Therefore, any new onset of confusion, disorientation, or significant changes in mental alertness, especially in the context of other symptoms of kidney infection, should be taken seriously. It is a critical red flag that the infection has overwhelmed the body’s local defenses and is causing dangerous systemic complications. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent the progression to septic shock, organ failure, and potentially death.

Symptoms of Kidney Infection and What They Reveal About Your Health

The symptoms of kidney infection collectively reveal that a bacterial infection has spread from the lower urinary tract to the kidneys, triggering a serious systemic inflammatory response. This progression indicates a significant health issue requiring immediate medical attention. The combination of symptoms such as flank pain, fever, nausea, and changes in urination strongly suggests the presence of a kidney infection (pyelonephritis). If you experience these symptoms, especially alongside urinary discomfort like burning or frequent urination, you should see a doctor immediately, as this combination indicates a serious infection that has reached the kidneys.

By analyzing these symptoms collectively, healthcare providers can gain a clearer understanding of the body’s overall health status. Persistent symptoms such as fever, fatigue, flank pain, and changes in urination reveal a more advanced infection that is spreading beyond the bladder and affecting vital organs. When these signs appear, timely intervention is essential to prevent further complications.

Link Between Symptoms of Kidney Infection and an Underlying Urinary Tract Issue

The symptoms of kidney infection, such as fever and flank pain, alongside urinary symptoms like burning, frequency, and cloudy urine, illustrate the progression of an infection from the lower urinary tract to the kidneys. This progression signals that an initial bladder infection (cystitis) has worsened or gone untreated, allowing bacteria to travel upward through the ureters, infecting the kidneys.

The urinary tract is usually a sterile environment, but when bacteria, often from the gastrointestinal tract, enter the urethra, they multiply in the bladder. This leads to the classic symptoms of a lower UTI, including painful urination, frequent urges to urinate, and cloudy urine. If left untreated or if treatment fails, the infection can ascend to the kidneys, transforming a relatively minor infection into a more serious condition. Once the bacteria reach the kidneys, they trigger a systemic immune response, which leads to high fever, chills, body aches, severe flank pain, nausea, and fatigue.

The presence of both localized urinary symptoms and systemic illness strongly indicates that the body is fighting an infection on two fronts: one in the bladder and a much more dangerous one in the kidneys. This clinical picture reveals that the infection has progressed from a localized UTI to a more advanced and complicated condition requiring urgent medical care.

Symptoms of Kidney Infection and a Potential Compromised Immune System

The severity and rapid onset of symptoms associated with a kidney infection can indicate a compromised immune system or other underlying health conditions. While anyone can develop pyelonephritis, individuals with weakened immune systems are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe or rapidly progressing kidney infections. The presence of severe symptoms suggests that the body’s immune defenses are struggling to contain the infection at the bladder level.

For example, people with uncontrolled diabetes are at an increased risk of kidney infections because elevated blood sugar levels promote bacterial growth in the urine, and their immune system may not function properly. Similarly, those with autoimmune diseases, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients taking immunosuppressant drugs may have a reduced ability to fight off infections, allowing what might have been a simple UTI to quickly escalate into a more serious kidney infection.

Other factors, such as structural abnormalities of the urinary tract—like kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or vesicoureteral reflux—can also make individuals more susceptible to kidney infections. These conditions obstruct urine flow, creating an environment where bacteria can easily ascend to the kidneys. In these cases, symptoms of kidney infection may be more severe or recurrent.

The intensity and severity of kidney infection symptoms not only reflect the virulence of the bacteria but also serve as critical diagnostic clues, revealing potential hidden health problems that may make a person more vulnerable to serious infections. The presence of unusually severe or frequent kidney infections should prompt further investigation by a healthcare provider to identify and address any underlying health issues.

When Symptoms of Kidney Infection Become a Medical Emergency

The symptoms of kidney infection become a medical emergency when they signal the onset of sepsis or significant organ dysfunction, requiring immediate hospitalization and intervention. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to infection causes widespread inflammation, leading to organ damage. Recognizing the red-flag symptoms that indicate this dangerous progression is crucial to seeking emergency care without delay.

While any suspected kidney infection warrants prompt medical attention, certain signs elevate the situation to an emergency that demands urgent care. You should go to the emergency room immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms of kidney infection:

• High, Uncontrolled Fever: A fever above 102°F (38.9°C) that does not respond to fever-reducing medication.
• Severe Nausea and Vomiting: Inability to keep any fluids or oral antibiotics down, leading to a high risk of dehydration and making home treatment impossible.
• Signs of Sepsis: A combination of symptoms like confusion or disorientation, extreme weakness or lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing or shortness of breath, clammy or pale skin, and a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Severe, Incapacitating Pain: Flank or abdominal pain that is so intense it cannot be managed.
• Decreased Urine Output: Producing very little or no urine, which may signal acute kidney injury, where the kidneys begin to fail.
• Known Complicating Factors: If you are pregnant, have a compromised immune system, are elderly, or have known kidney problems (such as kidney stones or a single functioning kidney), any symptom of kidney infection should be treated as a potential emergency.

Recognizing these warning signs is critical because they indicate that the symptoms of kidney infection have overwhelmed the body’s ability to cope, escalating into a systemic crisis. Prompt emergency treatment with intravenous (IV) antibiotics, fluids, and supportive care is essential to prevent septic shock, multi-organ failure, and potentially death.

How Kidney Infection Symptoms Vary by Age or Gender

Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, can present differently depending on age, gender, and individual health factors. While the basic symptoms of kidney infections (fever, flank pain, nausea, and changes in urination) are consistent across most people, certain groups may experience variations in how these symptoms manifest. This can affect how easily the infection is recognized and treated.

Kidney Infection Symptoms in Women

Women are more prone to kidney infections due to their anatomy. The urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to travel from the genital area to the bladder and up to the kidneys. Common symptoms of kidney infection in women include:

• Frequent Urination: Women often experience increased urgency or frequency to urinate, which can be mistaken for a lower urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Painful Urination: Women may also experience a burning sensation when urinating (dysuria), which is a hallmark symptom of bladder infections that can also accompany kidney infections.
• Flank Pain: Pain on one side of the lower back, near the kidneys, is common, and it may be described as a dull ache or sharp pain, particularly if the infection is severe.
• Nausea and Vomiting: This is common, and it often accompanies high fever.

In women, kidney infections are usually straightforward to diagnose based on these symptoms, but complications such as pregnancy or underlying health conditions (e.g., diabetes) may affect how the body responds to the infection.

Kidney Infection Symptoms in Men

While men are less likely to get kidney infections than women, they can still develop pyelonephritis, especially if they have urinary tract abnormalities or other conditions like an enlarged prostate. Kidney infection symptoms in men are similar to those in women but may include:

• Difficulty Urinating: Men may experience urinary retention, pain, or difficulty starting urination, particularly if the infection is related to prostate enlargement or other structural issues in the urinary tract.
• Flank Pain: Like women, men will often experience severe pain in the lower back or side near the kidneys.
• Fever, Chills, and Sweats: These systemic symptoms are also common in men and can indicate a more serious infection.

In men, it’s important to consider the possibility of other underlying conditions, such as prostate problems or urinary tract obstructions, which can complicate the infection and make treatment more complex.

Kidney Infection Symptoms in Children

In children, kidney infection symptoms may be harder to recognize because they can be more subtle and less specific. Infants and young children might not be able to communicate their symptoms, so caregivers should be alert to signs such as:

• Fever: A high fever is one of the most common signs of a kidney infection in children. It is often accompanied by irritability and lethargy.
• Poor Feeding or Vomiting: Infants or toddlers may refuse to eat, vomit frequently, or seem unusually fussy or tired.
• Painful Urination: Older children may experience burning or discomfort while urinating, but younger children may express discomfort through crying or changes in behavior.
• Abdominal Pain: Children may have pain in the abdominal or flank region that can be mistaken for other causes, like stomach bugs or constipation.

Because children can’t always verbalize their discomfort, it’s essential to pay attention to these physical signs of illness and seek medical attention promptly.

Kidney Infection Symptoms in the Elderly

In elderly individuals, the symptoms of a kidney infection may not be as clear-cut as in younger adults, and atypical signs can complicate diagnosis. Older adults often experience non-specific symptoms of infection, and confusion or altered mental states can be one of the first signs of a kidney infection in this age group. Symptoms in elderly individuals may include:

• Confusion or Disorientation: In elderly patients, confusion, agitation, or a sudden change in mental status can be a key indicator of a kidney infection, particularly in those with underlying health conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s.
• Absence of Fever: Interestingly, older adults may not develop a high fever, or their fever may be less pronounced. This can make it more difficult to diagnose a kidney infection based solely on temperature changes.
• Weakness and Fatigue: Extreme fatigue or weakness without a clear cause may be linked to a kidney infection in older adults. This can sometimes be mistaken for a normal aging process or other chronic conditions.
• Urinary Symptoms: Just as in younger adults, elderly individuals will often experience painful urination, frequent urination, or changes in the color or smell of the urine. However, these symptoms may not be as obvious or may be attributed to other age-related conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men.

Because kidney infections in the elderly can progress quickly to more severe conditions, such as sepsis or kidney failure, recognizing these less obvious symptoms is critical. Early detection and treatment are especially important for preventing complications in older adults.

Conclusion

If you notice any of the symptoms of kidney infection, it’s crucial to act quickly and consult a healthcare professional. Early treatment not only helps alleviate pain and discomfort but also reduces the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body, including the bloodstream.

While some symptoms may resemble those of a simple UTI, kidney infections can be more dangerous and require prompt medical attention. By understanding the key signs of a kidney infection, you empower yourself to take control of your health and ensure you receive the right care. Always prioritize your well-being and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

Read more: 7 Common Symptoms of Kidney Cysts and How to Identify Them

FAQ: Symptoms of Kidney Infection

What are the primary symptoms that indicate a kidney infection?

The primary symptoms of a kidney infection include high fever, chills, severe flank pain (lower back or side pain), nausea, vomiting, and painful or frequent urination. Cloudy, foul-smelling urine and fatigue are also common indicators.

How can I tell the difference between a kidney infection and a regular urinary tract infection (UTI)?

While both conditions share symptoms like painful urination and increased urgency, kidney infections usually present with more severe systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, flank pain, and nausea or vomiting. UTIs are generally limited to the bladder and may not cause the widespread illness seen in kidney infections.

Are there any symptoms of kidney infection that are unique to certain age groups?

Yes, in children, symptoms may include irritability, poor feeding, and vomiting. In older adults, confusion, delirium, or a sudden change in mental status may be the primary symptom. Women may experience urinary discomfort, while men might have additional symptoms related to prostate issues.

What complications can arise from untreated kidney infections?

If left untreated, kidney infections can lead to serious complications such as sepsis, kidney damage, or even kidney failure. The infection can spread to the bloodstream, causing septic shock and potentially life-threatening organ failure.

What should I do if I suspect I have a kidney infection?

If you suspect you have a kidney infection, seek medical attention immediately, especially if you experience high fever, severe pain, nausea and vomiting, confusion, or difficulty urinating. Delaying treatment could lead to severe complications, so it’s crucial to start antibiotics as soon as possible.

How is a kidney infection diagnosed and treated by healthcare providers?

A kidney infection is typically diagnosed through urine tests, blood tests, and imaging studies. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization may be necessary. Pain management and fluids are also used to support recovery.

Can kidney infections recur? What factors increase the risk of recurrence?

Yes, kidney infections can recur, especially in individuals with chronic urinary tract issues, such as kidney stones, bladder obstruction, or a history of UTIs. People with weakened immune systems or conditions like diabetes are also at a higher risk of repeated infections.

Can pregnancy affect kidney infection symptoms or treatment?

Pregnancy increases the risk of kidney infections due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the urinary tract. Pregnant women with symptoms of a kidney infection should seek immediate medical care, as untreated infections can lead to complications for both the mother and baby.

How long does it take to recover from a kidney infection with treatment?

With prompt antibiotic treatment, mild cases of kidney infections may show improvement within a few days, but full recovery can take 1–2 weeks. Severe infections may require longer treatment and may involve hospitalization. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics to avoid recurrence.

What preventive measures can I take to avoid kidney infections?

Preventing kidney infections involves proper hygiene, staying hydrated, urinating after sexual activity, and promptly treating any lower UTIs. For individuals with recurrent infections, healthcare providers may recommend long-term antibiotics or other preventive strategies.

Sources

• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Kidney infection (Pyelonephritis).
• National Kidney Foundation. (2021). Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection). 
• Urology Care Foundation. (2020). Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis). 
• WebMD. (2021). Kidney Infection Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments.