Kidney Infection: Kidney is a very important part of our body which along with cleaning the blood removes toxins and excess water from the body. It also helps in maintaining the balance of water and minerals. But when it gets infected, all these functions go awry. This infection in the kidney is called pyelonephritis in medical language which usually starts from the urinary tract and moves upwards. If not treated on time, it can damage the kidney permanently and there is also a risk of infection spreading in the blood.
Reasons behind infection
The most common cause of kidney infection is the increase of UTI i.e. urinary tract infection. When bacteria reach the kidney through the urinary tract, infection can occur. This problem is seen more in women because their urinary tract is small due to which bacteria reach quickly. People who hold urine or do not drink enough water are also at risk. This problem is more common in people with kidney stones, diabetes, pregnancy and weak immunity.
It is important to identify the symptoms
According to Dr. Himanshu Verma, the symptoms of kidney infection can emerge gradually or suddenly. High fever, chills and lower back pain are common. Feeling a burning sensation during urination or frequent or very less urination can be its symptoms. Foul smell, foam or blood in the urine is also a sign of danger. Also, there may be problems of fatigue, nausea and vomiting in the body.
What happens in a serious condition
If the infection spreads rapidly, the person may feel dizzy, blood pressure may drop and confusion may also occur. In such a situation, if the symptoms persist for more than two to three days, then the doctor should be contacted immediately. If delayed, this infection can reach kidney failure which can prove to be fatal.
How to prevent it
To avoid kidney infection, some important habits have to be adopted. First of all, one should drink enough water throughout the day so that bacteria can be flushed out with urine. Never make a habit of holding urine. Adopt the right method of cleaning after toilet, especially women. Take a balanced and nutritious diet and if symptoms of UTI appear, get immediate treatment. If there is any chronic disease of diabetes or kidney, keep getting it checked from time to time. Do not take any antibiotic medicine without consulting a doctor.
