What is Pyelonephritis?

Pyelonephritis is a medical term used to describe a bacterial infection of the kidneys, specifically the renal pelvis and the surrounding kidney tissue. This condition typically results from the upward spread of bacteria from the lower urinary tract (such as the bladder or urethra) into the kidneys. Pyelonephritis can affect one or both kidneys and is considered a more serious form of urinary tract infection (UTI).

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Causes Of Pyelonephritis

Bacterial Infection:

  • Ascending Infection: Most common cause, bacteria travelling from lower urinary tract (bladder) to kidneys (E. coli most frequent culprit).
  • Hematogenous Spread: Less common, bacteria reaching kidneys through bloodstream (Staphylococcus from endocarditis, for example).
  • Lymphatic Spread: Rare bacteria spreading from surrounding tissues.

Risk Factors:

  • Frequent UTIs: Repeated infections increase risk of bacteria reaching kidneys.
  • Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Blockages or structural issues can hinder urine flow and promote infection.
  • Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): Condition where urine backflows from bladder to ureters and kidneys.
  • Anatomical Anomalies: Kidney stones, strictures, or enlarged prostate can obstruct urine flow.
  • Weakened Immune System: Diabetes, HIV, medications, or other conditions can reduce immune response.
  • Catheter Use: Indwelling urinary catheters increase risk of bacteria entering the tract.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure make pregnant women more susceptible.
  • Sexual Activity: Frequent intercourse can introduce bacteria and irritate the urethra.
  • Spermicide Use: Certain spermicides can disrupt normal bacterial balance in the vagina.

Other Factors:

  • Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to UTIs and pyelonephritis.
  • Age: Young children and older adults are at higher risk.
  • Gender: Females are more prone to UTIs in general, increasing their risk of pyelonephritis.

Symptoms Of Pyelonephritis

General:

  • Fever: Often high, exceeding 102°F (38.9°C)
  • Chills: Can be severe
  • Malaise: Feeling unwell and tired
  • Loss of appetite: Reduced desire to eat

Pain:

  • Flank pain: Severe pain in the back or side, typically on one side (where the affected kidney is)
  • Costovertebral angle tenderness: Pain when pressing on the area between the ribs and spine (where the kidneys are located)
  • Abdominal pain: May be present, especially in children

Urinary symptoms:

  • Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate often, even with little urine output
  • Urgency: Feeling the need to urinate immediately, difficult to hold
  • Dysuria: Pain or burning during urination
  • Cloudy urine: Urine may appear cloudy or hazy
  • Blood in urine (hematuria): Can be visible or microscopic
  • Pus in urine (pyuria): May be present in some cases
  • Bad-smelling urine: May be present

Other:

  • Nausea and vomiting: May occur, especially in children
  • General discomfort: Feeling unwell and achy

Who is at a Higher Risk

  • Sex: Women are significantly more prone due to anatomical factors like a shorter urethra.
  • Age:
    • Young women: Highest incidence in age group 15-29 due to hormonal and anatomical changes.
    • Pregnant women: Increased risk of severe complications due to potential impact on fetus.
    • Older adults: Weakened immune system and possible urinary tract issues raise risk.
  • Urinary Tract Health:
    • Frequent UTIs: Recurrent infections increase the risk of reaching the kidneys.
    • Structural abnormalities: Kidney stones, bladder irregularities, etc., obstruct urine flow and promote infection.
    • Neurogenic bladder: Difficulty emptying bladder leads to stagnant urine and bacterial growth.
  • Medical Conditions:
    • Diabetes: Compromised immune function and higher glucose levels in urine facilitate bacterial growth.
    • Weakened immune system: HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive medications, etc., increase susceptibility.
    • Neuropathic conditions: Loss of bladder sensation can lead to incomplete emptying and infection.
  • Catheter use: Indwelling catheters create a pathway for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.

How To Diagnose Pyelonephritis

Tests:

  • Urinalysis: Checks for white blood cells, bacteria, and blood in the urine.
  • Urine culture: Grows bacteria from the urine to identify the specific type and guide antibiotic choice.
  • Blood tests: May show elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers.
  • Imaging tests (if needed): Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the kidneys and rule out other causes.

Complications Of Pyelonephritis

Short-term complications:

  • Renal abscess: Pus gathers around the infected kidney, requiring drainage or surgery.
  • Perinephric abscess: Infection spreads to the fatty tissue surrounding the kidney, also requiring drainage or surgery.
  • Sepsis: The most serious complication, where bacteria enter the bloodstream causing a widespread inflammatory response. Sepsis can lead to organ failure and death if not treated immediately.
  • Acute kidney failure: The kidneys temporarily lose their ability to filter waste products from the blood, requiring supportive care until recovery.
  • Emphysematous pyelonephritis: Rare but serious, gas-forming bacteria cause air bubbles in the kidney, requiring urgent intervention.

Long-term complications:

  • Chronic kidney disease: Repeated infections or scarring from prior episodes can lead to permanent kidney damage and decreased function.
  • Hypertension: High blood pressure is a common complication of chronic pyelonephritis.
  • Increased risk of future kidney infections: People with a history of pyelonephritis are more prone to recurrence, especially if underlying conditions like bladder obstruction are not addressed.

Ayurvedic Treatment For Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis Ayurvedic Treatment provides a holistic approach to addressing this kidney infection. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, focuses on balancing the body's doshas for overall well-being. In Pyelonephritis Ayurvedic Treatment, herbal remedies play a crucial role. Ayurveda emphasizes the use of potent herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Chandraprabha to alleviate symptoms and promote kidney health.

Pyelonephritis Treatment in Ayurveda centers on dietary adjustments, advocating a renal-friendly diet. Incorporating cooling foods like cucumber, mint, and coriander helps pacify inflammation. Alongside, Ayurvedic therapies like Panchakarma aim to detoxify the body, expelling accumulated toxins.

Opting for Pyelonephritis Ayurvedic Treatment provides a natural and balanced approach to healing, addressing the root cause while promoting overall renal health. Consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner ensures personalized and effective management. Embrace Ayurveda for a harmonious journey to kidney wellness.

Ayurvedic Medicine For Pyelonephritis

Some Ayurvedic herbs that are traditionally associated with urinary tract health include:

  • Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): Known for its diuretic properties, gokshura is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support kidney and urinary system health. It may help in promoting urine flow.
  • Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Punarnava is believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used traditionally for urinary tract conditions and may help in reducing inflammation.
  • Varuna (Crataeva nurvala): Varuna is traditionally used for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It may be beneficial in promoting urinary tract health and reducing inflammation.
  • Chandraprabha Vati: This Ayurvedic formulation contains a combination of herbs, including guggulu, musta, and shilajit. It is believed to support urinary and kidney health.
  • Daruharidra (Berberis aristata): Daruharidra is considered to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for urinary tract conditions.
  • Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Shatavari is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support the female reproductive system but is also believed to have diuretic properties that may benefit the urinary tract.

Why Choose Karma Ayurveda

Choosing Karma Ayurveda for pyelonephritis treatment comes with a set of potential benefits and drawbacks, which it's important to consider alongside conventional medical options. Here's a breakdown to help you weigh your decision:

Potential benefits of choosing Karma Ayurveda:

  • Focus on holistic healing: Ayurveda views the body as a connected system, aiming to address the root cause of the disease and not just the symptoms. This may appeal to those seeking a more comprehensive approach to treatment.
  • Natural and herbal remedies: Ayurvedic treatments typically involve herbal medications, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes, which can be appealing to those looking for alternatives to conventional antibiotics.
  • Panchakarma therapy: Karma Ayurveda specializes in Panchakarma, a detoxification process believed to cleanse the body and promote healing. This can be beneficial for overall well-being and may support kidney function.
  • Positive testimonials: Karma Ayurveda claims to have successfully treated pyelonephritis in many patients, according to their website and online reviews. However, it's important to critically evaluate these claims and consider individual cases that may vary.
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JAN 05,2023-JAN 04,2026