Kidney Infection
Medical Author: Siamak Nabili, MD, MPH
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
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Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Medical Author: Melissa Stoppler, M.D.
Medical Editor:
Barbara
K. Hecht, Ph.D.
One in every 20 people develop a kidney stone at some
point in their life. Kidney stones, sometimes called renal calculi, form within the kidney itself or
in other parts of the urinary tract.
People who have kidney stones report the sudden onset of
excruciating cramping pain in their side, groin, or abdomen. Changes in body position do
not relieve this pain. It may be so severe that it is accompanied by nausea and
vomiting. Kidney stones also characteristically cause blood in the urine.
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What is the function of the kidneys?
The kidneys have a variety of important functions in the body. These include
filtering the waste products from the blood as it circulates through capillaries
within the kidneys, regulating blood pressure,
maintaining steady levels of electrolytes (for example, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium,
and chloride),
and contributing to the production of red blood cells.
Where are the kidneys located?
The kidneys are located on either side of the body
underneath the diaphragm
near the lower back. Each kidney is connected to the bladder in the pelvis by ureters (long
tube-like structures) that drain the urine from the kidneys to the
bladder. Urine stored in the bladder is excreted from the body through the
urethra.
Picture of the Kidneys and Urinary Structures

What is a kidney infection?
The main components of the urinary tract are kidneys, ureters, bladder, and
urethra. Any part of the urinary system may become infected and this is
generally referred to as urinary tract infection
(UTI).
- Lower urinary tract
infection involves the urethra, the bladder, and, in men, the
prostate gland.
- Upper urinary tract infection refers to infection of the kidneys.
- Infection of
the kidneys is also known as pyelonephritis.
Next: What are the causes of kidney infection? »
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Urinalysis - Learn about the urinalysis test. Diseases and conditions such as urinary tract or kidney infection, kidney stones, kidney failure, diabetes, or high blood pressure can be diagnosed or monitored. Source:MedicineNet
- Ultrasound - Learn about the ultrasound imaging examination, purpose of the procedure, preparation and results on MedicineNet.com Source:MedicineNet
- Urinary Tract Infection In Adults - Read about urinary tract infection (UTI) causes (in men, women), symptoms, treatment (antibiotic medicine), recurrent bladder infection prevention (cranberry) and FAQ. Source:Government
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