Oladapo Ifedolapo: What you should know about kidney infection

Kidney infection (renal infection or pyelonephritis) is a type of urinary tract infection usually caused by Bacteria (E-Coli) which may spread from the udder or the urethra to one of the kidneys, infecting it.

Causes of kidney infections

1. Weakened Immune systems
2. Toilet hygiene
3. Female physiology
4. Kidney stones
5. Enlarge prostate
6. Sexually active females

Symptoms of kidney infection

1. Diarrhea
2. Nausea
3. Uncontrollable shivering
4. Vomiting
5. Back pain
6. Pain in the side
7. Pain in the groin
8. Blood urine
9. Foul smelling urine
10. Frequent urination
11. Pain in the lower abdomen

Treatments for kidney infection

• Kidney infection can either be treated at home or in a hospital which depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s generally state of health
• Treatment at home consists of taking prescribed oral antibiotics, consuming plenty of fluid will help prevent fever and dehydration. Analgesics can also be prescribed.
• If the individual is tested in hospitals and suffers from dehydration, fluids may be administered with a drip.

Complications of kidney infection

• Kidney abscesses
• Blood poisoning

How to prevent kidney infection

• Hydration
• Urination
• Sexual intercourse – Urinate after sexual intercourse
• Toilet hygiene -Wipe the anus from front to back after defecating
• Eat plenty of fibre