Kidney infection treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Kidney infection treatment
Recommended health tests for Kidney infection
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Kidney infection
Kidney infection, medically known as pyelonephritis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that typically starts in the bladder or urethra and travels up into the kidneys, requiring prompt medical attention. It is a significant health concern due to its ability to cause lasting damage to the kidneys. According to the National Kidney Foundation, millions of people are affected by kidney infections every year, with women being more prone to this condition than men. Understanding its treatment, particularly through natural and functional medicine, can provide individuals with a holistic approach to care and potentially minimize the use of antibiotics, which can sometimes lead to undesirable side effects and antibiotic resistance.
Causes
Kidney infections are primarily caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract via the urethra and multiplying. This can originate from a bladder infection, and factors such as sexual activity, pregnancy, and conditions that block the flow of urine or reduce bladder emptying like kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can increase the risk. Additionally, a weakened immune system can decrease the body's resistance to infection, making it easier for bacteria to ascend to the kidneys.
Signs and symptoms
- Persistent urge to urinate - Burning sensation or pain during urination - Cloudy or bloody urine - Foul-smelling urine - Fever - Chills - Nausea and vomiting - Pain in the lower back or sides
Diagnosing Kidney infection
Diagnosing a kidney infection involves a combination of a patient's medical history, physical examination, and specific diagnostic tests. Urine tests are commonly used to look for bacteria, blood, or pus in the urine. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans may be recommended to check for blockages or abnormalities in the urinary tract. In some cases, a urologist may perform a cystoscopy, inserting a thin scope through the urethra to examine the bladder and urethra for issues.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing kidney infections revolves around reducing the risk of UTIs and ensuring good urinary tract health. This includes staying well hydrated, urinating when needed (not holding it), and practicing good personal hygiene. For those who experience recurrent infections, changing certain lifestyle factors such as diet and the type of birth control used can be beneficial. Treatment through functional medicine focuses on both alleviating symptoms and treating the root cause of the infection to prevent recurrence. This can include: - Increasing fluid intake, especially water, to help flush bacteria from the urinary system. - Consuming probiotics to support gut and urinary tract health. - Incorporating cranberry products, such as juice or supplements, which may reduce the frequency of UTIs in some individuals. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider, as cranberry products can interact with certain medications. - Adopting a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support the immune system. - Using herbs with antimicrobial properties, such as uva-ursi or goldenseal, under the direction of a healthcare professional, as incorrect use can have adverse effects. - Managing stress and getting enough sleep to support overall health and immune function. In addition to these measures, working closely with a healthcare provider to monitor kidney function and ensure the infection is being effectively addressed is crucial. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary, but integrating natural treatment methods can offer supportive care and help minimize reliance on pharmaceuticals.
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