Kidney Infection (cont.)
What are different types of kidney infection?
Kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, may be classified
as uncomplicated, complicated, or chronic kidney infection (long-term).
A complicated kidney infection refers to severe involvement of the
kidney, for example, abscess formation, or gas seen in the kidney by an imaging study,
such as a CT scan. In these situations, the symptoms may be more severe and
less responsive to usual treatments.
Chronic kidney infection may refer to recurring kidney
infection that could be a result of a kidney stone obstructing the ureter or
other structural abnormalities in the ureters (for example, vesicoureteral
reflux, a condition in which urine is forced back up toward the kidneys). These
conditions are usually associated with milder symptoms, but they may last
longer.
The evaluation of complicated kidney infection and chronic kidney infection
typically require a more thorough evaluation and more extensive testing such as
CT scans and X-rays.
What are the common bacteria that cause kidney infections?
The most common bacteria responsible for kidney infection are Escherichia
coli (E. coli), which accounts for close to 80% of cases of kidney and urinary
tract infections. Other common bacteria are Klebsiella,
Proteus, Pseudomonas,
Enterococcus, and
Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
What is the treatment for kidney infection?
The most important component of treating kidney
infection (as with any bacterial infection) is timely initiation of antibiotics
under the directions of a healthcare professional. If kidney infection is
diagnosed, then an empiric antibiotic (an antibiotic that would cover all likely
bacteria) is usually prescribed. A urine and blood sample will be taken and sent to a laboratory
for analysis of any bacterial growth (urine culture and blood culture).
When a specific bacteria is isolated, antibiotics may be changed to cover
that particular bacteria. If the bacteria shows resistance (unresponsive) to the
antibiotic that was initially prescribed, then the antibiotic should be changed
promptly to one in which the organism is susceptible.
Home remedy with oral antibiotics and adequate water and
fluid intake are usually sufficient for the treatment of uncomplicated kidney and urinary tract
infection. However, if symptoms are severe (uncontrolled nausea and vomiting
resulting in inability to take medications) or the infection is difficult to
control with the routine oral remedies for kidney infection, then
hospitalization may be required to receive intravenous antibiotics, intravenous
hydration, and aggressive management of symptoms. In cases of complicated kidney
infection hospitalization may also be necessary.
Next: Are there foods I should avoid if I have a kidney infection? »
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