Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)

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Anatomical landmarks, back view	Anatomical landmarks, side view	Kidney anatomy	Kidney - blood and urine flow
Tuberculosis in the kidney

Urinary tract infection - complicated; Infection - kidney; Complicated urinary tract infection; Pyelonephritis

Prompt and complete treatment of cystitis (bladder infection) may prevent development of many cases of pyelonephritis. Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection should be treated thoroughly because of the chance of infection of the kidneys.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Preventive measures may reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence of infection. Keeping the genital area clean and remembering to wipe from front to back may reduce the chance of introducing bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra.

Urinating immediately after sexual intercourse may help eliminate any bacteria that may have been introduced during intercourse. Refraining from urinating for long period of time may allow bacteria time to multiply, so frequent urination may reduce the risk of cystitis in those who are prone to urinary tract infections.

DIET

Increasing the intake of fluids (64 to 128 ounces per day) encourages frequent urination that flushes bacteria from the bladder. Drinking cranberry juice prevents certain types of bacteria from attaching to the wall of the bladder and may lessen the chance of infection.

Review Date: 07/25/2006
Reviewed By: David M. Charytan, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.