Guide To The Types Of Kidney Disease

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a severe kidney infection. Acute cases happen suddenly, cause the kidneys to swell, and often result in permanent kidney damage. Unfortunately, pyelonephritis is often life-threatening. Repeated or persistent cases are considered chronic pyelonephritis, though they are rare. However, chronic cases are more common in individuals with urinary obstructions. Children are also at a higher risk of the chronic form. Risk factors for acute pyelonephritis include kidney stones, the presence of other kidney conditions, an enlarged prostate, use of catheters, certain medications, and urinary tract surgery.

Symptoms of this condition include fever, back pain, side pain, abdominal pain, cloudy urine, blood in urine, painful urination, frequent urination, and a foul odor to urine. Patients often receive antibiotics for this condition. However, hospitalization may be necessary, and surgery is often recommended for repeated infections. Surgery may include removing part of the kidney, removing obstructions, correcting a structural issue, or draining an abscess.

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