Kidney Infection Treatment

Lifestyle Modifications

Support recovery, alleviate symptoms, and prevent future infections.

• Ensure adequate rest to support the body's healing process, especially during the initial recovery period.
• Maintain high fluid intake, primarily water or squash, to help flush bacteria from the urinary system. Take small sips if feeling nauseous.
• Always try to fully empty your bladder when urinating to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Do not hold your urine if you feel the urge to go, as this can exacerbate the infection.
• Practice good personal hygiene, especially after using the toilet, to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
• Avoid irritants such as perfumed hygiene products or tight-fitting clothing that can promote bacterial growth.

Medicinal Treatment

Eradicate the infection, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications.

• Oral antibiotics, typically prescribed for 7 to 14 days, are the primary treatment to eliminate the bacterial infection.
• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics administered in a hospital setting for severe infections, pregnant patients, or those with underlying health conditions, offering faster action.
• Pain relievers such as paracetamol to manage pain and reduce high temperatures. Avoid ibuprofen unless specifically advised by a doctor due to potential kidney risks.
• Urine tests to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic.
• Blood tests to monitor infection markers and kidney function, especially during hospital treatment.
• Follow-up urine tests to confirm the eradication of the infection after completing the antibiotic course.

Surgical Treatment

Address underlying structural issues contributing to recurrent or complicated kidney infections.

• Surgical removal or fragmentation of kidney stones that may be obstructing urine flow and contributing to recurrent infections.
• Correction of anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract that predispose individuals to kidney infections.
• Drainage of kidney abscesses, which are pockets of pus that can form in severe, complicated cases of kidney infection.

Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases where an underlying structural issue, such as kidney stones or anatomical abnormalities, is causing recurrent infections or complicating treatment.