If bacteria are able to enter into one or both kidneys it can result in an infection. The bacteria that is involved is most often of the E. coli type which normally lives in the bowel. A kidney infection can occur for a number of reasons, which usually involve the bacteria entering through the urethra and then traveling up toward the bladder through the urinary tract, and then reaching the kidneys. It can also occur due to bacteria or fungi on the skin which then enters the bloodstream, but this is much rarer and generally only happens to people with a compromised immune system.
Kidney infections affect women much more than men, so it is, therefore, more important for women to be on the lookout for the symptoms that we will be discussing here in this list. However, it can affect people of any gender and age so everyone needs to be aware of the signs.
1. Unusual Urination
Changes to urination are among the most common symptoms that a kidney infection has taken hold, as it is a urinary tract infection (UTI) and also because it often begins as an infection of the bladder. These changes in urination can take many forms, with some easier to notice than others.
One of the easiest changes to spot is having blood or pus in the urine – in the case of blood, it will make the urine look dark regardless of you being properly hydrated. This should be treated very seriously and you will need to see a doctor immediately.
Other symptoms include foul-smelling or cloudy urine or a burning feeling experienced during urination. Feeling a frequent need to urinate, or feeling as if you can never completely empty your bladder, can be other symptoms that a kidney infection is developing. If you are experiencing any of these lesser symptoms for an extended time you will also need to see a doctor.
