Symptoms of Kidney Inflammation
Many individuals may experience kidney inflammation, known medically as pyelonephritis. The symptoms can vary based on the patient’s age, typically arising around two days after the onset of infection. It is crucial for those affected to seek immediate medical attention upon noticing these symptoms, as this type of infection can pose life-threatening risks. The following details common symptoms associated with kidney infections, categorized by age group.
Common Symptoms
The common symptoms associated with kidney inflammation include:
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Pain in the back, flank, or groin area.
- Abdominal pain.
- Frequent urination.
- A persistent and urgent need to urinate.
- Burning sensation or pain during urination.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Presence of blood or pus in urine.
- Foul-smelling or cloudy urine.
- Loss of appetite.
- Severe fatigue or weakness.
- Diarrhea.
- General malaise.
Symptoms by Age
The symptoms exhibited by the affected individual can differ based on age and are outlined as follows:
Symptoms of Kidney Inflammation in Seniors
In seniors aged over 65, common symptoms of kidney inflammation may not manifest. Instead, they may experience only mental confusion, speech or vision disturbances, or hallucinations. Without prompt treatment, the condition may worsen, potentially leading to symptoms of sepsis.
Symptoms of Kidney Inflammation in Children
Infants and toddlers under two years of age may experience a significant rise in temperature when suffering from a kidney infection, often without any pain or urinary issues. The following symptoms may manifest in children:
- Decreased energy levels.
- Irritability.
- Vomiting or poor nutrition.
- Abnormal growth patterns.
- Abdominal pain.
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice.
- Blood in urine.
- Foul-smelling urine.
- Involuntary urination.
When to Consult a Doctor
Patients with kidney inflammation are advised to consult a physician for medical advice. Kidney infections can lead to serious complications that may threaten the patient’s life. Immediate medical consultation is recommended in the following situations:
- If the kidney infection is chronic or prolonged, as it may result in permanent kidney damage.
- If concerning signs or symptoms are present.
- If the body does not respond to urinary tract infection treatment, and there is no improvement in accompanying symptoms.
- If the patient exhibits symptoms such as blood in the urine or persistent nausea and vomiting.
- If sepsis is suspected, which is a life-threatening condition characterized by the following symptoms:
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Rapid breathing.
- Increased heart rate.
- Rash.
- Confusion.
Summary
Symptoms of kidney inflammation may appear within hours to two days following infection. While these symptoms can differ among infants, children, and seniors, it is imperative to seek immediate medical consultation if any of these symptoms arise for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Video on Causes of Kidney Inflammation
The kidneys are crucial organs responsible for filtering blood and eliminating waste and salts. What are the causes of inflammation in this vital organ?