Yes, kidney infections are relatively rare, but they can cause lots of medical problems if left untreated or not treated quickly. Because of that, it’s important to know what symptoms are signals of kidney infections and what you should do if you experience those symptoms.

Our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team further explains below.

What Is a Kidney Infection?

A kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection that generally begins in the urethra or bladder and travels to one or both of the kidneys.

Kidney infections can affect one or both kidneys at the same time. It is very important to treat kidney infections as soon as possible because, as we said before, infections that are not treated soon enough can cause serious damage. We’ve listed common kidney infection symptoms below.

Common Kidney Infection Symptoms

• Fever
• Chills
• Back or side pain
• Groin pain
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urination
• Urine that’s cloudy, smells bad or contains blood

What Causes Kidney Infections?

Bacteria called E. coli are most often the cause. Other bacteria or viruses can also cause kidney infections, and women are at a greater risk of getting a kidney infection than men.

It’s rare, but an infection can also get in through your skin, make its way into your blood, and travel to your kidney. You can get an infection after kidney surgery, too, but that’s even more unlikely. We’ve listed a few ways you can lower your risk of kidney infections below.

Ways to Prevent Kidney Infections

• Drink plenty of water.
• Urinate as soon as you feel the need to do so.
• Urinate after sex.
• Avoid the use of deodorant sprays or douches in the genital area.

If you believe you have a kidney infection, visit our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. center ASAP to get the proper care and treatment you need! We’re here for you now and always.