Pyelitis: Everything You Need to Know

Pyelitis is a medical condition that affects the renal pelvis, which is the funnel-shaped structure in the kidney that collects urine. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but can also be caused by other factors, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.

Symptoms of Pyelitis

The most common symptom of pyelitis is pain in the lower back or side. Other symptoms may include:

* Fever
* Chills
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Painful urination
* Frequent urination
* Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
* Blood in the urine

Causes of Pyelitis

The most common cause of pyelitis is a bacterial infection. The bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and travel up to the renal pelvis. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing pyelitis include:

* Kidney stones
* Enlarged prostate
* Diabetes
* Weakened immune system
* Recent urinary tract infection

Diagnosis of Pyelitis

Pyelitis is diagnosed based on a physical examination, medical history, and urine analysis. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of Pyelitis

Pyelitis is typically treated with antibiotics. The type of antibiotic used will depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Prevention of Pyelitis

There are no surefire ways to prevent pyelitis, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:

* Drink plenty of fluids
* Urinate frequently
* Avoid using harsh soaps or douches
* Practice good hygiene
* See your doctor if you have any symptoms of a urinary tract infection

Outlook for Pyelitis

With prompt treatment, most people with pyelitis recover quickly. However, if the infection is not treated, it can lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage or sepsis.