The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located somewhere around the abdomen and below the rib cage, which is majorly responsible for the filtration and removal of waste products from the body. Without the two organs or when they are unable to perform their roles optimally, there will only be a dangerous buildup of wastes in the body and this could, in turn, lead to other complications or death....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
The kidneys can be affected by various issues among which is pyelonephritis, which is otherwise known as kidney infection.
According to the Mayo Clinic, kidney infection or pyelonephritis refers to a type of urinary tract infection that is believed to start in the urethra or bladder before travelling to either one or both of an individual’s kidneys. A kidney infection is not to be taken with levity and it often requires prompt medical care.
This is because, when not attended to promptly or treated properly, a kidney infection can cause permanent damage to your kidneys.
Alternatively, the bacteria can quickly spread to your bloodstream, thus leading to a life-threatening infection/situation. The treatment of kidney infection often revolves around the use of antibiotics and may require the hospitalisation of the affected person.
Symptoms
Pyelonephritis is a quite serious kidney condition but luckily, it doesn’t mask its presence in the body as it shows certain signs and symptoms which often help to announce its presence in the body.
Some of the associated signs and symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, chills, pain in the back, side or groin area, abdominal pain, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, strong urge to urinate at all times, burning sensation or pain when urinating, and urine that is cloudy or smells badly.
Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic, a kidney infection can happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract through your urethra and then multiply before travelling to your kidneys. However, a kidney infection can also occur when there is a bacteria-induced infection elsewhere in your body which spread through the bloodstream to your kidneys.
Risk Factors
Certain factors may put you at a higher likelihood of having a kidney infection. Some of the known risk factors for a kidney infection include being female, having a blockage in the urinary tract, having a weakened immune system due to health conditions such as diabetes and HIV, having damage to nerves around the bladder, using a urinary catheter, and having a condition that makes your urine flow backwards.
Possible Complications
As earlier stated, a kidney infection is not to be handled with levity because when left untreated, it can lead to a host of life-threatening complications that include kidney scarring which can, in turn, lead to chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure and kidney failure. An untreated kidney infection can also lead to blood poisoning, and in women, it can lead to pregnancy complications.
Preventive Measures
The risk of developing a kidney infection can be drastically reduced by taking certain steps that are known to help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. A few of the preventive measures against a kidney infection include the following:
1. Adequate fluid intake, especially water.
2. Urinate as soon as you feel the urge to.
3. Women should empty their bladder as soon as possible after intercourse.
4. Women are also advised to wipe carefully from front to back after urinating or after a bowel movement.
Foods To Avoid
For people with one kidney issue or the other, it is often advised that such people avoid or watch/limit their intake of certain foods as such foods are capable of worsening their kidney functions. A few of the foods that should be avoided especially by people with renal issues are examined below:
1. Dark-coloured soda
Apart from their high content of calories and sugar, dark-coloured sodas are incredibly high in additives that contain phosphorus, a nutrient that is linked to worsening kidney issues including pyelonephritis or kidney infection.
2. Avocados
Despite their associated health benefits, avocados are not an ideal food for people with renal or kidney issues as they are incredibly rich in potassium, another essential nutrient which, unfortunately, should not be consumed in excess by those with renal problems.
3. Bananas
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits on the planet and are often touted for their various health benefits. However, their intake should be watched by those on a renal diet as they have a high potassium content, which can make kidney function worse in such people.
4. Dairy
Another food you should consider avoiding or eating in moderation when you have a kidney infection or other kidney conditions is dairy products. This is because dairy products are high in protein, phosphorus and potassium. It is recommended to watch your intake of dairy products because they can easily lead to a buildup of protein waste in your blood.
5. Processed meats
Processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon, and sausage are generally considered unhealthy for various reasons and they are often one of the usual culprits in many cases of chronic diseases. They are especially high in salt and protein content, and these two nutrients are considered unhealthy for those with kidney conditions.
