Kidney Infection

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Treatment

Kidney infections are treated using antibiotics to destroy the bacteria. The type of antibiotic used varies, depending on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. Commonly-prescribed antibiotics include Amoxil®, Cipro®, Levaquin®, and Bactrim®.

Patients generally take antibiotics for one to two weeks. Symptoms caused by minor infections may begin to improve after a couple of days, but severe infections often take longer.

To help reduce symptoms while recovering from a kidney infection, patients can apply heat to the affected area and/or take pain relievers. Aspirin is not recommended. Drinking plenty of fluids helps remove bacteria from the urinary tract and also may be helpful.

Other Treatments

If a kidney infection does not respond to antibiotics, or if the condition recurs, physicians often check for urinary tract abnormalities. Intravenous antibiotics or surgery may be required. Severe kidney infections may require lengthy hospital stays and antibiotics for up to six weeks.

Follow-up

If the kidney infection does not improve as expected, follow-up care with a physician may be necessary. In some cases, a change in antibiotic and/or additional tests (e.g., to detect complications) are required.

Prevention

In general, steps to prevent urinary tract infection (UTI) can help prevent kidney infections. These steps include the following:

• Obtain treatment for UTI as soon as possible.

• Stay hydrated so that bacteria can be efficiently removed from the body. Caffeine, which can cause dehydration, should be avoided and water and non-caffeinated beverages are best. Cranberry juice can help prevent bacteria from attaching to the wall of the bladder. (Due to a risk for a reaction that can cause excessive bleeding, patients who take blood-thinning medications [warfarin or Coumadin®] should check with their health care provider before drinking cranberry juice.)

• When using the toilet, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from moving toward the urethra.

• Do not regularly resist the urge to urinate. This gives bacteria more time to multiply in the bladder and to spread. Urinating after sexual intercourse can help eliminate bacteria.

• Keep the genital area clean by washing carefully and gently. Showers are recommended over baths, because excess moisture can help an infection spread. Women should avoid using scented soaps and deodorant feminine products.

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