Pyelonephritis

Overview

Pyelonephritis is inflammation of the renal pelvis and kidney parenchyma caused by bacterial infection, usually spreading upward from a lower urinary tract infection, most commonly due to E. coli. Acute cases present with fever, flank pain, and urinary frequency, urgency, and pain, and it is more common in women.

Symptoms

• Fever and chills
• Flank pain
• Urinary frequency and urgency
• Painful urination
• Nausea and vomiting

Treatment

Prompt full-course treatment with sensitive antibiotics, drinking plenty of water to promote urination, and correction of predisposing factors such as urinary obstruction.

Dietary advice

Drink plenty of water, eat a light diet, and avoid spicy irritants and alcohol.