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Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)
✓ Fact-checked against sourced references · Editorial standards
A kidney infection is a urinary tract infection that has reached the kidneys. It needs prompt treatment.
Signs
- Fever and chills
- Flank or back pain
- Burning on urination
- Nausea
Why it matters
Untreated kidney infections can damage the kidney or spread to the bloodstream, so antibiotics are started promptly.
Frequently asked questions
Is a kidney infection an emergency?
It needs prompt medical care — fever with flank pain warrants a doctor visit the same day.
Sources
Related articles
Educational only. This guide is general kidney-care information, not individual medical advice.