Pyelitis
Pyelitis: What Is It?
Pyelitis is an inflammation of the renal pelvis, the part of the kidney that collects urine and is responsible for its transport. This condition is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but it may also be related to kidney stones, tumors, or other medical conditions. Treatment may include antibiotics, surgery, or lifestyle changes. In this article, we discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments for pyelitis.
Symptoms of Pyelitis
The most common symptom is fever and pain, usually located in the lower back, flank area, or abdomen. Other symptoms include:
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Frequent, painful urination
- Pain in the lower back, flank area, or abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chills
- Fatigue
Causes of Pyelitis
Pyelitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly from Escherichia coli (E. coli), streptococci, and staphylococci. Other causes may include kidney stones, trauma to the renal pelvis, inflammation or infection of nearby tissues, and tumors.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor will diagnose pyelitis through a medical history, a physical examination, urinalysis, and imaging tests. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the pyelitis and may include antibiotics, surgery, or lifestyle changes. Antibiotics can help reduce inflammation and eliminate the underlying infection. Surgery may be necessary to remove any underlying tumors or stones that are causing the pyelitis. Lastly, lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of fluids, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight may help alleviate the symptoms of pyelitis.
Conclusion
Pyelitis is an inflammation of the renal pelvis and is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms may include fever and pain, cloudy or bloody urine, and frequent, painful urination. Treatment may include antibiotics, surgery, or lifestyle changes. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed, contact your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.