Kidney Infection
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for kidney infections. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need kidney infection care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
What Is a Kidney Infection?
A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). Most kidney infections are caused by bacteria or viruses that affect the lower urinary tract, usually the bladder. If left untreated, the infection can move to the upper urinary tract, infecting one or both kidneys and requiring immediate medical intervention. Some patients may develop post-surgical kidney infections if bacteria enter the body during the procedure and travel through the blood to the kidneys.
Causes of Kidney Infection
Most kidney infections begin as a bladder infection caused by bacteria or viruses. These bacteria and viruses can spread to infect one or both of the kidneys and can also cause a UTI. In some cases, bacteria in the blood is carried from another part of your body to the kidneys, leading to infection.
Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Infection
Symptoms of kidney infections vary by age and may include:
- Chills
- Cloudy, dark, bloody or foul-smelling urine
- Fever
- Frequent, painful urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in your back, side or groin
Adults over the age of 65 with a kidney infection may not experience any of the typical symptoms but may experience mental and emotional discomfort, including:
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Jumbled speech
Diagnosing Kidney Infection
Kidney infections are diagnosed based on a comprehensive physical exam and review of the patient’s medical history. During the exam, your physician may perform diagnostic tests, including a digital rectal examination (DRE), lab tests including urinalysis, and imaging tests, including computed tomography (CT) scans or ultrasound.
Treating Kidney Infection
Kidney infections are typically treated with antibiotics. In order to combat the most common types of bacteria, your physician may prescribe an antibiotic even before you receive your test results. Although you may feel relief from your symptoms, it is important to take the entire course of antibiotics, or your infection could return.