Kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, typically begin when bacteria enter the urinary tract. Most often, the bacteria responsible is E. coli, but other bacteria or even viruses can be the cause. The infection usually starts in the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. From there, the bacteria ascend to the bladder, causing a bladder infection (cystitis). If left untreated, the infection can travel further up the urinary tract to infect one or both kidneys.
The Journey of Bacteria: From Urethra to Kidney
The process can be summarized in these steps:
- Entry: Bacteria enter the urethra, often through improper hygiene or sexual activity.
- Bladder Infection (Cystitis): Bacteria multiply in the bladder, leading to a bladder infection. Symptoms like frequent urination, burning during urination, and pelvic pain may occur.
- Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): If the bladder infection is not treated, bacteria can travel up the ureters (tubes connecting the bladder to the kidneys) and infect the kidneys. This causes a kidney infection, resulting in more severe symptoms like fever, chills, flank pain, and nausea.
Preventing Kidney Infections
Preventing lower urinary tract infections (UTIs) is crucial to preventing kidney infections. This can be achieved through:
- Practicing good hygiene, especially after using the toilet.
- Drinking plenty of fluids to flush out bacteria.
- Wiping from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
- Promptly treating bladder infections.
While most kidney infections originate from an ascending infection from the lower urinary tract, it's important to note that bacteria can also reach the kidneys through the bloodstream from other parts of the body.
