2023-09-11 23:49:09
The pyelonephritis is one of the complications in the urinary tract that cause the most ‘headache’ because, if not treated in time, it can permanently affect functioning in the kidneys. If you already start with lower back pain, smelly or cloudy urine, discover What is pyelonephritis, what are its symptoms and complications.
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What is pyelonephritis and why does it occur?
The pyelonephritis is a kidney infection that arises from complications in the urinary tract. In accordance with specialists from the Cleveland Clinic Medical Institute, Yes one urinary infection If not treated in time, the bacteria that cause it can move to other areas, such as the kidneys. The problem is that kidney infection is more serious than urinary infection.
This kidney infection It is usually caused by bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), an infectious agent that is normally found in the intestine, but enters the urinary tract, causing infections. However, there are others that also cause pyelonephritis, for example:
Klebsiella pneumoniaeProteus is wonderfulEnterococcus sppStaphylococcus aureus
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What are the symptoms of pyelonephritis?
He pain when urinating or a foul-smelling odor when urinating are some of the main warning signs. However, the symptoms of pyelonephritis They also include the following: chills, fever, urgent need to urinate, tiredness, pain in the side of the back, nausea, and vomiting.
Although the pyelonephritis is caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, factors such as recurrent cystitis, obstructions in the urinary system, such as kidney stones or structural abnormalities, diabetes, use of urinary catheters or pregnancy, increase the risk of developing this kidney infection.
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What are the complications of pyelonephritis?
It is true that the symptoms of pyelonephritis They make us run to the doctor to alleviate the discomfort it causes. However, when not treated properly, it can become a chronic infectioncausing serious complications, including the following:
Kidney damage: chronic pyelonephritis or recurrent can cause permanent kidney damage, reducing the kidneys’ ability to filter and eliminate waste from the body, leading to a chronic renal failure.Kidney abscesses: In some cases, the infection can lead to the formation of kidney abscesses, that is, the accumulation of pus in a cavity within the kidney. This can cause severe pain in the kidney area and, if left untreated, may require surgical drainage. Kidney scarring: Chronic inflammation in the kidney can cause the formation of scar tissue, known as kidney fibrosis. This can affect kidney function, increasing the risk of developing high blood pressure. Urinary obstructions: In some cases, pyelonephritis It can be caused by obstructions in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or narrowing of the ureters. If these blockages are not treated, they can worsen the infection, developing serious complications. Septicemia: If the infection spreads from the kidney through the bloodstream, it causes a fatal infection known as septicemia or septic shock. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
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How long does pyelonephritis last?
Although the pain caused by pyelonephritis It is most uncomfortable, the truth is that the duration of this infection varies depending on its severity, how quickly the symptoms are treated and how the body responds to the treatment. In general, the pyelonephritis lasts between seven to 14 days.
Some antibiotics used to treat pyelonephritis They are ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ceftriaxone, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole or amoxicillin. Any of these medications are effective in stopping kidney infection before causing permanent damage.
Now that you know thatWhat is pyelonephritis, what are its symptoms and what complications does it cause?, do not hesitate to follow our advice to avoid kidney damage. Take care of yourself!
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