Kidney Infection Symptoms in Men

Kidney infection, or Pyelonephritis, is an infection caused by bacteria in the kidneys. It is a type of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in which the infection that originates at the urethra travels through the ureter to the bladder and to the kidneys. Infection leads to abnormal or improper functioning of the kidneys. There is a widespread misconception that urinary tract infection in men is not possible, as the urethra in case of men is longer and there are no chances for the infection to reach the ureter. Urinary tract infections and kidney infections are equally common in case of men as well as women.

Symptoms of Kidney Infection in Men

Pain and difficulty during urination is the most prominent symptom of kidney infection, all other kidney diseases and urinary tract infection. Apart from that, the following symptoms are also observed:

• Burning sensation or pain while urinating
• Strong, frequent urge for urination
• Frequent urination at night (nocturia)
• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Strong smelling urine
• Fever
• Pain in groin
• Pain in lower abdomen
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Night sweats
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

Pain in the lower abdomen on one side, that begins in the abdomen but travels to the back, is also one of the significant symptoms of kidney infection in men and women. It is essential to get the condition treated immediately in order to prevent it from damaging the kidneys further. Hence, if one observes any of the above mentioned symptoms, he should consult the doctor immediately.

Treatment of Kidney Infection

The doctor will undertake examination and also advise X-ray, MRI, blood and urine tests for proper diagnosis of the disease. As the kidney infection is a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In case of severe infection, the bacteria may be immune to the antibiotics. In that case, the doctor will change the course of antibiotics and may prescribe heavier or strong antibiotics. In most of the cases, dehydration takes place due to vomiting. Therefore, the doctor will advise medications that help in treating dehydration. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous fluids (IV) may be required in order to treat dehydration.

Apart from the traditional treatment method, there are several preventive measures that need to be followed. Firstly, although there are no specific foods that cause harm or benefit the kidney infection, one needs to consult the doctor about a diet. Secondly, one should have sufficient amounts of water to treat dehydration. Apart from this, if one wishes to prevent infection in the future, one should practice cleanliness and hygiene. One should note that having sexual intercourse with a partner suffering from urinary tract infection places a person at a high risk of suffering from kidney infections. It is also advisable to look out for the symptoms of kidney stones, as people suffering from kidney stone are also at a high risk of contracting infections.

Lastly, one should remember that it is better to identify these symptoms at an early stage to get the condition treated. Remember, if treated timely, kidney infections can be cured completely. This information is not to be substituted for proper medical advice and treatment. Take care!