Do I need any tests?
It is important to find out which bacterium (germ) is causing the infection. This will enable a doctor to prescribe the correct antibiotic. A urine sample is needed to identify the bacterium. This may be the only test that is needed for women who are otherwise healthy, but develop cystitis which progresses to a kidney infection. Further tests may be advised in some situations. For example, if a kidney stone or a kidney abnormality is suspected. Tests are also more likely to be advised for men and children, and for anyone with recurring kidney infections.
What causes a kidney infection?
A kidney infection can occur at any age. It is much more common in women.
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Most kidney infections develop as a complication from a cystitis (bladder infection). Bacteria causing cystitis sometimes travel up to infect a kidney. The bacteria are usually those which live in your bowel. They sometimes travel from the anus, up the urethra into the bladder, and cause infection. (Note: cystitis is common, and most people with cystitis do not develop a kidney infection.)
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Some kidney infections develop without a bladder infection. This is sometimes due to a problem in the kidney. For example, you are more prone to kidney infections if you have a kidney stone or an abnormality of a kidney.
What is the treatment for a kidney infection?
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Antibiotics will usually clear the infection. An antibiotic is usually prescribed straight away if a kidney infection is suspected, even before the result of the urine test is known. Some bacteria are resistant to some antibiotics. Therefore, sometimes you may need a change of antibiotic if the urine test shows a bacterium which is resistant to the initial antibiotic. The course of antibiotics is for 7 - 14 days, depending on which one is used.
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Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen ease pain and reduce a high temperature (fever). Stronger painkillers may be needed if the pain is more severe.
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Have lots to drink to prevent dehydration.
In many cases, the infection is not too severe and clears with a course of antibiotic tablets. However, some people are admitted to hospital. For example, if:
- the infection is severe, or
- does not settle quickly with antibiotics, or
- you are otherwise ill or frail, or
- you are at risk of dehydration due to vomiting a lot.
In hospital, antibiotics can be given straight into the vein for a more immediate effect. If you are dehydrated, you may also need a 'drip' (where fluid is put straight into a vein).
Are there any complications from a kidney infection?
Most people who previously had normal kidneys make a full recovery if treatment is given promptly. Possible complications which occur in a small number of cases include the following.
- Permanent damage to the kidney. This is unusual if you have a normal kidney which becomes infected. However, repeated kidney infections are a complication of some kidney disorders which may damage the kidney further.
- Sometimes bacteria from a kidney infection get into the bloodstream, particularly if treatment is delayed. This may cause septicaemia (blood poisoning). This can be serious or even life-threatening.
©EMIS and PIP 2005
