We tend to sweat a lot in the summer. The summer heat and humidity also create an environment conducive to bacterial growth inside our bodies. If you visit indoor or outdoor swimming pools to cool off, there’s a higher chance of contracting bacteria through the water. One of the health concerns to particularly watch out for in the summer is kidney health.
Dr. Kim Gyung Jong, Head of the Urology Department at Seran Hospital, explained on June 27, “Many people mistake the symptoms of acute pyelonephritis, a type of kidney infection, for the flu and either self-medicate with cold medicine or delay treatment. In these cases, the inflammation can worsen and damage the kidneys.”
Acute pyelonephritis is a bacterial disease, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water, at least 8 glasses a day. After swimming in a pool or the sea, rest to avoid fatigue and take a shower.
Kim further explained, “Recurring acute pyelonephritis can be due to anatomical or functional urinary tract abnormalities, as well as lifestyle habits. Men can also suffer from acute pyelonephritis, so it is not safe to ignore symptoms. If you experience fever or pain on your side, you should undergo a thorough diagnosis to check for issues with the genitourinary system or kidneys.”
Acute pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the kidneys. Symptoms include high fever, chills, and back pain. Unlike general muscle pain, which is felt just above the pelvis, back pain from acute pyelonephritis is felt where the spine and the lowermost rib meet. This area is called the costovertebral angle, and it hurts even with a slight touch when infected with acute pyelonephritis.
Acute pyelonephritis is more common in women due to their shorter urethra compared to men. It often precedes cystitis and can infect the kidneys through the bloodstream. Symptoms include painful urination and feeling the need to urinate again after just having done so. If cystitis is present, symptoms may also include painful urination, frequent urination at night, and blood in the urine.
Since acute pyelonephritis rarely heals on its own, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms are present. If treatment is delayed or if the immune system is significantly weakened, it can lead to sepsis. Acute pyelonephritis is diagnosed through urine tests, urine culture tests, and blood tests.
Simple pyelonephritis can be treated with antibiotics taken orally for 1 to 2 weeks. However, if gastrointestinal issues prevent oral antibiotic intake, if symptoms are severe, or if the patient is elderly, hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic treatment is necessary.
