Kidney infections if left untreated could cause the kidneys to deteriorate rapidly, making treatment more difficult, and also causing many other bodily complications. Proper and timely treatment followed by prevention will ensure that the entire urinary tract stays free of infection.

The Urinary Tract
The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and the urethra. The main function of toxic waste removal from the blood is carried out by the kidneys. As dirty blood passes through the kidneys, excess water and toxins are removed.

The ureters (narrow tubes) then transport this liquid (urine) to the bladder, finally being emptied through the urethra.

Urinary Tract Infection
Infections in the urinary tract are a very common problem, affecting women more than men (suspicion is that this happens because women have a shorter urethra).

Urine is a sterile liquid, free of bacteria, virus, and fungi. A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria, virus, or fungi manage to enter through the urethra and start multiplying. If not treated at this stage, the microorganisms will move upward and infect the bladder. If the infection is not treated at this stage, the microorganisms will move further up into the kidneys through the ureters, causing a kidney infection. This infection is known as pyelonephritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Infections
A kidney infection when diagnosed must be treated immediately. If ignored and left untreated, it will cause toxins to keep re-circulating in the body and increasing, leading to severe water retention and blood poisoning. Most of the persons are aware of the symptoms, but ignore it till it is too late.
Following are some of the kidney infection symptoms.

– Painful, burning sensation during urination
– Stinging pain in the lower back
– Sudden unexplained fever
– Sudden unexplained fatigue

While urinating, if there is a burning sensation accompanied by pain, it could signal to a developing kidney infection. This symptom should not be confused with the burning and itchy sensation that is felt while suffering from yeast infection.

If you suffer from a constant / recurring dull to throbbing pain in the lower back (around the waist) it could be kidney infection.

When the kidneys are infected it will almost always be accompanied by a mild fever. If the infection is not treated immediately, the infection will worsen and so will the fever.

A symptom that should never be ignored is when you are perfectly fine, and for no apparent reason begin feeling very lethargic and tired. If you feel fatigue constantly even though you have been well rested, it is time to visit your physician immediately.

Kidney Infection Treatment
The moment you notice any symptoms that may indicate a kidney infection, do not delay visiting your physician. The earlier any kidney infection is diagnosed and treated the better. If left untreated, kidney infection could lead to other serious complications, at times death.

If you are found suffering from pyelonephritis, your physician may prescribe a sulfa drug which is good at clearing off the infection. If you know that you are allergic to sulfa drugs, or get to know after beginning the course of medication, let your doctor know immediately. The course of medication could be changed and could include antibiotics.

You can also do your part in preventing / reducing kidney infection when you notice any of the signs and symptoms of kidney infections. Many doctors advice drinking plenty of water. This not only helps in flushing out the toxins, but will also gradually help flush out the infection causing bacteria.

Many believe in the properties of pure cranberry juice to help avoid a kidney infection.

Other methods that could help avoid a kidney infection could include the following.

– Avoid using the bath-tub. If you have to, avoid a bubble bath. Use the shower instead.
– Always clean the genital area before and after sexual intercourse.
– Urinate after sexual intercourse.
– Urinate as soon as you feel the urge to. Do not hold back the urge to urinate for long periods of time.
– Women should always wipe from front to back, never the other way.

Remember that a kidney infection, however minor, should never be taken lightly. If left untreated the condition of the kidneys could deteriorate quickly, leading to other bodily complications. Treatment will also get more difficult. A small kidney infection if left untreated over time, could also lead to death. Visit your physician as soon as any symptom is observed and go through the entire course of medication that is prescribed. Even a trace of the infection left behind could trigger another major infection.  By Kevin Mathias   Published: 5/10/2007

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