Kidney infection or pyelonephritis is a type of urinary tract infection that begins in the bladder and moves up to the kidneys. Generally, infections of the bladder and prostrate are referred to as lower urinary tract infections, and when the infection travels upwards to the kidneys, it is called upper urinary tract infection. If left untreated, a kidney infection may cause damage to the kidneys and even spread through the bloodstream, leading to a serious infection. As such a kidney infection requires immediate medical attention. Kidneys work by filtering the waste from the blood and conserving and eliminating the water, based on the body's requirements. The kidneys flush out waste from the body through the urine, which is stored in the bladder until it can be flushed out through the urethra. An infection occurs when bacteria enters through the urethra and spreads into the urinary tract.
A kidney infection may be characterized by symptoms such as strong and frequent urges to urinate, a burning sensation while urinating, and pain in the abdomen, sides and back. The urine also takes on a cloudy appearance and there may also be pus and blood in the urine. Apart from this, some individuals may experience an inability to urinate or a need to urinate at night. In severe cases, there may also be high fever, chills and night sweats, fatigue and nausea.
A very effective and well known natural remedy for treating kidney infection is cranberry juice. Cranberry juice has multiple medicinal benefits and is used to treat other health conditions apart from kidney infections. It is also highly recommended that you drink plenty of water, about 3-4 quarts a day, as it the best way to flush out the infection. Vitamin C is also known to be important in treating kidney infection and intake of foods such as salmon and almonds which are rich in vitamin C is beneficial. It is also advisable to avoid processed foods such as cheese and chocolate, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners. The pain resulting from the kidney infection can be treated by holding a heat pad against the lower abdomen. It will also help to wear comfortable and loose fitted clothes. Garlic and Echinachea are also used to treat kidney infections as they serve as natural antibiotics. There are also many available over the counter medications that are used widely to treat kidney infection, but use these only after consulting your doctor.
answered by G M