Updated: 10/24/2023
Are you looking for ways to fend off health conditions like kidney infection? The right supplements can help keep you safe from disease and provide your body with the nutrients it needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a kidney infection is, how it’s caused, and what dietary strategies to employ when fighting the potentially fatal condition. With our line of high-quality nutritional supplements specifically designed to support overall wellness, you can take control of your health now – so that later on your hard work will pay off in spades! Get ready for an action-packed journey as we learn about renal infections and start taking steps towards avoiding them completely.
What is a Kidney Infection?
Kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects the kidneys. The infection can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms that can interfere with daily life. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. The kidneys are part of the urinary tract, so a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is a type of urinary tract infection. Although it is less common than a bladder infection, a kidney infection can be serious because it may cause permanent damage to the kidneys. Bacteria can also spread into the bloodstream via the kidneys and potentially cause life-threatening infections.
Symptoms of Kidney Infections
Lower Back Pain
One of the most common symptoms of a kidney infection is lower back pain. You may experience a sharp pain or a dull ache in your back, just below the ribcage. Usually, the pain will only be felt on one side of the body. If you have a persistent ache in your back, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to get it checked out by a medical professional.
High Fever
Kidney infections can also cause high fevers, which can be both alarming and uncomfortable. A fever is your body’s way of indicating that there is something wrong, and you should not ignore it. When your body is trying to fight off an infection, your temperature can go up. If your fever persists, or you experience chills or night sweats, it’s time to go see a doctor.
Painful Urination
Experiencing pain or a burning sensation during urination is another symptom of a kidney infection. This is because when the bacteria enter your urethra, it can cause inflammation and irritation. If you experience painful urination accompanied by other symptoms, it might be time to get tested.
Frequent Urination
Kidney infections can also result in frequent urination. This happens because your kidneys are not functioning correctly and they are trying to flush out the bacteria from your system. If you have to go to the bathroom more than usual, it might be a sign of a kidney infection.
Nausea and Vomiting
Another symptom of a kidney infection is nausea and vomiting. When you have an infection, your body is working hard to fight it. This can lead to feelings of nausea and vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, it’s best to rest and stay hydrated while seeking medical attention.
Cloudy, Foul-Smelling Urine
Kidney infections can cause changes in urine color, odor, and transparency. Your urine may become cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling, indicating the presence of bacteria or pus. It may also have an unusual texture or consistency, such as gravel-like or milky fluid. If you notice any of these changes, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
Complications
Cancer
Kidney pain may be the result of a kidney infection, but there are also many other possible sources of pain, including kidney stones, cysts, blood clots, swelling and polycystic kidney disease. Although it is rare, the pain may also be a sign of cancer.
Blood in Urine
Painful urination and a strong, persistent, frequent urge to urinate are also common signs of a kidney infection. Cloudy urine with a strong smell is another indicator. The patient may also have pus or blood in their urine. In addition to these, the patient may also feel abdominal pain, back pain and pain in the groin or the flank, the area between the ribs and the hips. Like any infection, a severe kidney infection can potentially be life-threatening..
Kidney Abscess
A kidney abscess is one potential complication of a UTI. Kidney stones increase the risk of developing an abscess because they block urine flow. Bacteria can also stick to the stones, allowing the infection to grow and antibiotics may not be able to kill them. Patients often need surgery to treat an abscess in the kidneys.
Chronic Pyelonephritis (CP)
Chronic pyelonephritis (CP) is when a patient experiences repeated kidney infections that may be difficult to get rid of. Repeated infections can cause severe damage to the kidneys. It may also cause scarring, chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. Physicians are not exactly sure what causes it, partly because patients can have the condition without any signs of infection. However, one cause may be reflux nephropathy, when urine flows back into the bladder.
Causes of Kidney Infections
Kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, are bacterial infections in one or both kidneys. They can be quite serious if left untreated and have the potential to cause long-term kidney damage. Although anyone can experience a kidney infection, women are more susceptible because of their shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the kidneys.
Urinary Tract Abnormalities
Some people are born with structural abnormalities in their urinary tract system, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and spread to the kidneys. These abnormalities can include vesicoureteral reflux, which is a condition where urine flows back up into the ureter and kidneys, or an enlarged prostate gland in men that can obstruct the flow of urine. If you have any underlying medical conditions that may impact your urinary tract, be sure to talk with your doctor about the best preventative measures to avoid kidney infections.
Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene habits can make it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and lead to an infection. For example, wiping from back to front after using the bathroom can introduce bacteria from the anus into the urethra. Additionally, not showering regularly or wearing tight clothing can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth. Practicing good hygiene habits can help prevent kidney infections, such as wiping from front to back, showering regularly, and wearing loose-fitting clothing.
Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can also make you more prone to kidney infections. When you don’t drink enough fluids, your urine becomes concentrated, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Limit your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can actually cause dehydration.
Weakened Immune System
If you have a weakened immune system, you are more at risk of developing kidney infections. This can include people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune diseases that impact the body’s ability to fight off infection. Additionally, certain medications such as corticosteroids or chemotherapy can lower your immune system’s ability to fight off bacteria. People with weakened immune systems should talk with their doctor about preventative measures to avoid kidney infections, such as taking antibiotics on a regular basis.
Sexual Activity
Sexual activity can also put you at risk for kidney infections, especially if you are prone to urinary tract infections. Engaging in sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urethra, which can then travel up to the kidneys if left untreated. Always practice good hygiene habits before and after sex, and talk with your doctor about preventative measures such as taking antibiotics before and after sexual activity.
Catheter Use
A catheter is a tube inserted through the urethra to help urine flow out of the bladder. Using a catheter for extended periods can increase the risk of a urinary tract infection, which can lead to a kidney infection if left untreated. If you need to use a catheter, it’s essential to keep it clean and follow your doctor’s instructions to reduce your risk of infection.
Risk Factors for Kidney Infections
Gender
Women are more prone to kidney infections compared to men. This is because women have a shorter urethra than men, which makes it easier for the bacteria to travel to the bladder and cause an infection. Women who use spermicides, feminine hygiene sprays, or other birth control methods that may irritate the genital area are also at higher risk of kidney infections.
Diabetes
People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing kidney infections than non-diabetics. High sugar levels in the blood can damage the kidneys’ filtering system, which makes it easier for the bacteria to cause an infection. Diabetics also have weakened immune systems, which makes them more susceptible to infections.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women run even higher risks of kidney infections because of the increased pressure on the urinary tract. The kidneys and uterus grow, compressing the ureters and the bladder. These changes can make it more difficult to empty the bladder and increase the risk of a urinary tract infection. Kidney infections during pregnancy can cause complications, such as low birth weight.
Alcohol
While alcohol is not usually a direct cause of a kidney infection, it affects kidney function which can lead to infections, pain and swelling. Alcohol is also a diuretic and it can affect the way the kidneys function, upsetting the body’s delicate fluid and electrolyte balance. It can also raise blood pressure and worsen conditions like kidney stones.
Caffeine
Drinking caffeine may also impact a patient’s chances of developing a kidney infection. Caffeine is a diuretic that research links to kidney stones and renal failure. Moderate amounts of caffeine should not have a negative effect on the kidneys, but patients who currently have a kidney infection should avoid it to speed up recovery.
Compromised Immune System
Diseases like diabetes, HIV and any other conditions that weaken the immune system can increase the risk of developing infections. If a patient has a bacterial or fungal infection on the skin, the organisms may enter the bloodstream and infect the urinary tract. Kidney transplant patients may also take immunosuppressants that keep the body from rejecting the new organ. However, these medications can increase the risk of infections.
Diagnosis for Kidney Infections
First, the physician will collect information about the patient’s medical history to identify any risk factors and perform a physical exam to address the patient’s symptoms. To test for a kidney infection, a doctor will ask for a urine sample to check for bacteria, blood or pus in the urine. The test helps the doctor identify bacteria and white blood cells. Male patients require a digital rectal examination (DRE) to check for a swollen prostate that may block the bladder.
Treatment for Kidney Infections
Usually doctors use antibiotics to treat a kidney infection to fight common types of bacteria before the patient’s lab results confirm the specific type of bacteria. After the results come back, the doctor may switch antibiotics to eliminate that particular bacteria. Recovery time depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s overall health. Patients may require hospitalization for bed rest or even surgery if it causes complications.
Antibiotics
When it comes to treating kidney infections, antibiotics are often the most prescribed forms of medication. These drugs work by killing off the bacteria or parasites that are causing the infection, helping relieve the symptoms of the infection. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to prevent recurring infections in patients who are prone to them. However, the use of antibiotics may lead to the development of antibiotic resistance bacteria, which means that it’s best to use them minimally and with caution.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water may also help manage the symptoms of kidney infections. When you’re dehydrated, your urine becomes concentrated, which can lead to further complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and kidney infections. Drinking enough water each day helps flush out any bacteria that may be present in your urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day to maintain proper hydration and kidney health.
Home Remedies
Along with antibiotics and hydration, several home remedies may help manage the symptoms of kidney infections. These remedies include drinking cranberry juice, using warm compresses, and taking over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Additionally, drinking green tea and apple cider vinegar may also help reduce inflammation and prevent bacteria from spreading in the kidneys.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
When managing kidney infections, it’s essential to avoid alcohol and caffeine drinks because they can be irritating to the kidneys. Alcohol and caffeine increase the workload of the kidneys, leading to dehydration and further complications such as high blood pressure. Instead, opt for herbal teas and pure water to reduce the risk of kidney infection.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may also be a necessary part of treating kidney infections. Surgery may be necessary to drain abscesses that develop in the kidneys, to remove blockages in the urinary tract, or to repair any damage that has been done to the kidneys. In some cases, surgery may be the only treatment option available, but this is rare.
Preventing Kidney Infections
Eat a Balanced Diet
To reduce the chances of developing a kidney infection, drink plenty of water every day. Drinking fluids helps to flush toxins from the bladder and the urinary tract.
Research states that cranberry juice may also be an effective dietary tool for a healthy urinary tract. It has large amounts of phytochemicals that can help keep E. coli bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls so that patients can eliminate them in their urine. Patients can also benefit from quality probiotics and fermented foods. These foods can help balance bacteria in the body.
Pay Attention to Hygiene
As for succumbing to the need to use the bathroom, don’t wait. If you feel the urge, go. Use good hygiene and wipe carefully from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria. Feminine hygiene products and douches are not necessary and can upset the natural balance of flora in the genital area, killing the good bacteria that help to keep the body healthy. Plain soap and water work fine. Women should use the bathroom as soon as possible after sex to reduce the amount of bacteria the urethra is exposed to, reducing the likelihood of developing an infection.
Supplements for Kidney Infections
D-Mannose
D-mannose is a natural simple sugar very similar to glucose that is found in certain fruits and vegetables such as cranberries, peaches and green beans. It helps promote urinary tract health, especially in combination with cranberry, dandelion root and vitamin C. In clinical trials, researchers concluded that the supplement may be as effective as antibiotics. D-Mannose is a type of sugar that is similar to glucose but has different properties. It can help to eliminate bacterial infections by preventing bacteria from binding to the bladder walls. D-Mannose supplements can help reduce the frequency and severity of UTIs and prevent recurrence. This supplement is also known to have no side effects. The recommended dosage for D-mannose powder is 2,000 mg once a day with water. Consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
Cranberry Extract
Cranberry has a long traditional history for remedying UTIs. Also, cranberry juice contains D-mannose, which may work as well as antibiotics for urinary tract infections. Other studies on cranberry juice validate this claim. But since cranberry juice can be high in calories and sugar, cranberry extract powder supplements may offer a better way to reap the beneficial effects. Take 400 mg one to three times daily, or as directed by a doctor.
Potassium
Potassium reduces urine acidity, helping to prevent crystals from forming that may become kidney stones. Raw fruits and vegetables contain potassium, especially citrus fruits like grapefruit and oranges. But it is also present in leafy greens and some fish. For patients who are prone to UTIs, it may be difficult to get enough through diet alone and potassium citrate supplements can offer beneficial effects without having to eat a mountain of collard greens. The recommended daily dose is 275 mg per day. Consult with a doctor for approval before taking this supplement.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut and help promote overall health. They can also help promote urinary tract health by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. There is some evidence that certain strains of probiotics can be helpful in preventing UTIs. Look for supplements that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is an Ayurvedic remedy that has a long tradition as a urinary anti-infective and diuretic. It can help treat urinary tract infections by eliminating bacteria, specifically E. coli. Research also states that it may also be able to treat urinary stones. The recommended dosage for tribulus terrestris extract is between 600 and 1,000 mg twice a day with meals. Follow a healthcare practitioner’s instructions.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including kidney problems. It is a natural diuretic that helps in flushing out excess fluids from the body, which can help relieve the symptoms of a kidney infection. Dandelion root supplements are available in capsule form, and some people even use the fresh plant in salads and smoothies.
Corn Silk
Corn silk is the silky thread-like material that covers the corn cob. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and helps in reducing the symptoms of a kidney infection, such as painful urination and bladder discomfort. Corn silk is available in supplement form, and it can also be brewed into a herbal tea.
Turmeric
The herb turmeric is another traditional remedy used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat a wide variety of illnesses, including kidney disorders. Its active ingredient is curcumin, which contains powerful antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and damage from free radicals. The recommended dosage for turmeric root extract powder is 1,000 mg three times per day with food and water if a doctor approves the dosage.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that can help boost immune function. It has also been shown to help prevent UTIs. Zinc helps to promote healthy urinary tract tissue and can prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining. You can take zinc supplements or increase your intake of zinc-rich foods, such as oysters, red meat, and pumpkin seeds.
Bottom Line
Kidney infections are a type of urinary tract infection that may cause permanent damage to the kidneys. Patients feel pain in the kidneys, burning or painful urination, cloudy urine, fatigue and fever. Infection may also cause diarrhea, vomiting and back pain. Usually kidney infections are bacterial, specifically from E. coli bacteria. But they may also develop from a fungal infection, viral infection or a parasite. Kidney infections can cause serious complications, including chronic infections that can cause kidney failure.
Treatment usually involves antibiotics to eliminate bacteria in the urinary tract. Patients can also make dietary changes to keep the body healthy and potentially prevent infections in the first place. Fruits, vegetables, probiotics and fermented foods can help and drinking plenty of water helps eliminate toxins from the body. Dietary supplements are also available to promote a healthy urinary tract and help fight bacteria.
Taking supplements shouldn’t be a substitute for medical treatment for UTIs or kidney infections, but you can significantly reduce the risk of getting a urinary tract infection by following healthy habits like drinking enough water and wiping from front to back. However, taking the above-discussed supplements can still give you an extra edge of protection and promote overall urinary tract health. It’s essential first to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any of these supplements. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so why not take a proactive step in caring for your urinary tract health?
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
