Symptoms of pyelonephritis, back pain + high fever? Ignoring it as a simple cold can be dangerous.

Lately, I have been feeling chills and shivering, and my side has been aching painfully.
If you feel a sharp pain when urinating, it might just be a cold, but don't ignore it—be sure to suspect it.
These symptoms might be a sign of pyelonephritis.

 

Pyelonephritis refers to a bacterial infection that occurs in the 'renal pelvis,' the area connecting the kidney and the ureter.

Most cases occur when bacteria that originate in the urinary tract, such as cystitis, ascend upwards.
Especially for women, since the urethra is shorter, bacteria can easily penetrate up to the kidneys.

 

 

The symptoms of pyelonephritis are more diverse than you might think.

In the early stages, it is common to experience chills like a cold, followed by a sudden rise in fever.
Fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher is common, and as the temperature fluctuates, sweating also occurs.

There are also cases where aching or throbbing pain occurs on the lower back or side, especially on one side.
It feels different from just a strained back; it seems like a deep internal organ is hurting, so it's a bit different.

 

There is also a problem with urination.
- Sharp pain when urinating,
I go to the bathroom frequently, but the amount is small.
- In severe cases, blood may be mixed with urine, or
- It can have a strong odor.

 

Whole-body aches similar to body aches, along with symptoms like headaches and loss of appetite, are also common.
If not treated early, the infection can spread throughout the body and worsen into sepsis, so you need to be very careful.

 

 

Fortunately, early treatment of pyelonephritis with proper antibiotic intake leads to quick recovery.
Most symptoms improve with about 1 to 2 weeks of medication.

However, if a high fever persists for several days or if the pain is severe, hospitalization and injection treatment may be necessary.

In particular, in people with chronic illnesses or the elderly, kidney function can decline early on.
It's really important not to miss the timing of initial treatment.

 

 

 

 

The basic way to prevent pyelonephritis is to drink enough water to facilitate urine excretion.
It is also important not to hold in your urine.

If you have even the slightest symptoms of cystitis, do not hold back and seek treatment immediately.

 

Especially for women, 꼭 보는 것도 세균 감염을 막는 데 도움이 됩니다.

 

If you feel even a little pain in your side or notice something unusual with your urine
Don't just dismiss it as simple muscle pain or a cold.
It is recommended to go to the hospital immediately if you suspect symptoms of pyelonephritis.

 

If caught early, it will heal quickly.
Even a slight delay can prolong treatment and lead to complications.

 

Have you ever experienced or received treatment for pyelonephritis?

 

 

 

Source:Seoul Asan Medical Center Health Information