A KIDNEY INFECTION NEEDING PROMPT TREATMENT
Pyelonephritis
A kidney infection causing high fever, back or flank pain, chills, nausea and painful frequent urination, needing prompt antibiotic therapy and sometimes hospital admission.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of one or both kidneys, usually caused by bacteria travelling upwards from the bladder. It is a more serious form of urinary tract infection that can affect kidney function if not treated promptly. The classical features include high fever with chills, pain in the back or flank (over the kidneys), nausea, vomiting, and burning or frequent urination. Patients often appear quite unwell compared to a simple bladder infection. Risk factors include kidney stones, urinary obstruction, pregnancy, diabetes, weakened immunity and recurrent urinary infections. Diagnosis is made through clinical features, urine tests, blood tests and imaging in selected cases. Most patients respond well to targeted antibiotic therapy, with hospital admission for severe cases. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete pyelonephritis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bacteria ascending from the bladder to the kidneys
- Kidney stones or urinary obstruction
- Diabetes or weakened immunity
- Pregnancy-related urinary changes
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Use of urinary catheters
- Structural or functional abnormalities of the urinary tract
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Urine routine examination, urine culture, blood tests and imaging in selected cases
Uncomplicated pyelonephritis · Complicated pyelonephritis (stones, obstruction, diabetes)
Targeted antibiotic therapy, hydration and supportive care
Severe cases need inpatient treatment and intravenous antibiotics
Underlying factors should be identified and addressed
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Targeted Antibiotic Therapy with Hydration
The most effective approach is prompt targeted antibiotic therapy guided by urine culture, combined with hydration, supportive care and hospital admission for severe cases. Identifying and treating underlying causes such as stones or obstruction prevents recurrence.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews your symptoms, examines for kidney tenderness and orders urine and blood tests along with imaging where needed.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan based on severity, response to initial therapy, presence of complications and any underlying urinary tract issues.
- 3
Medical Management
Targeted antibiotic therapy (oral or intravenous), hydration, fever control and management of complications; hospital admission for severe disease.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up urine analysis where indicated and evaluation for underlying causes such as stones, obstruction or recurrent infections.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Oral or IV Antibiotic Therapy (Culture-Guided)
Targeted antibiotic treatment based on urine culture and sensitivity ensures effective clearance of infection.
Hospitalisation for Severe Cases
Patients with high fever, severe symptoms, vomiting, low blood pressure or complications need inpatient care with intravenous therapy.
Hydration
Adequate oral or intravenous fluids support kidney function and recovery.
Imaging if Complicated
Ultrasound or CT imaging is used in selected cases to look for stones, obstruction or complications such as abscess.
Follow-up Urine Analysis
Repeat urine testing helps confirm clearance of infection and identifies any underlying issues that need ongoing care.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.