Kidneys are 2 bean-shaped organs that filter the blood to make urine. They are located in the lower abdomen behind the intestines.  Kidney infections happen when the bacteria travel higher, up into the kidneys. Both bladder and kidney infections are more common in women than men.

What are the symptoms of a kidney infection? The symptoms include:

●Fever

●Back pain

●Nausea or vomiting

●Pain or a burning feeling when you urinate

●The need to urinate often

●The need to urinate suddenly or in a hurry

●Blood in the urine

How do I find out if I have a kidney infection? 

A simple history of symptoms and signs along with a urine analysis test can confirm kidney infection.

Treatment: Dr.Paul usually prescribes antibiotics, which work by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.  You will probably need to take antibiotics for longer – maybe for up to 2 weeks. If you have a severe kidney infection, it’s also possible you will need to be treated in the hospital.

Your symptoms should begin to improve within a day of starting antibiotics. But you should finish all the antibiotic pills you get. Otherwise your infection might come back.

If you have symptoms suggestive of kidney infection, please visit Dr.Paul’s Clinic at your earliest convenience.