Kidney infection is a serious type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can affect anyone but this is more common in women. This is mostly due to the way women’s bodies are built which makes it easier for bacteria to travel up the urinary tract and reach to the kidney. So many women should not realize how a simple bladder infection should convert into something more serious if this is not treated on time. These types of kidney infections can kill you, as you are not aware of it. In this blog, we will discuss what is kidney infection, causes of kidney infections in females, and signs or symptoms in detail.
What is Kidney Infections?
Kidney infection, also called Pyelonephritis which is a serious type of UTI that can occur in one or both of the kidneys. It begins when bacteria get into the body through the urethra, the pipe that brings urine out of the body. The bacteria move up through the bladder and into the kidneys causing infection or inflammation. Kidneys play an important role in the body and it helps filter waste or extra fluids from your blood, then turn them into urine. If they become infected then they do not work as well and this can lead to other health problems in your body.
Main Causes of Kidney Infections in Females
Here are some common causes of kidney infection in females which are mentioned below.
Pregnancy
A woman experiences hormonal and physical changes to the body during pregnancy that should affect the urinary tract. The enlarging uterus can push against the bladder and ureters, that can restrict urine flow. When urine does not drain normally, as a result the urine builds up, allowing bacteria to flourish, which is a way of causing infection.
Anatomy of Female Body
The structure of the female body makes it easier for infections to reach the kidneys. With women having a shorter urethral length compared to males, so bacteria do not have to travel as far to the bladder or kidneys. In addition to this shorter distance, the opening of the urethra in women is close to both the vaginal and anal areas, where organisms, such as E. coli, are commonly found.
Weak Immune System
Women with pre-existing health issues, such as diabetes or taking medications that suppress their immune systems which are at risk of infections. Their immune systems may not be able to fight off bacteria as well and therefore, the infection can spread.
Poor Personal Hygiene
Good hygiene is of most importance in preventing kidney infections. You need to wipe from back to front after a bowel movement can drag bacteria from the anal area towards the urethra. If you are using poor hygiene products or simply not drinking enough water, flushing out bacteria can also contribute to kidney infections.
Blockages in the Urinary Tract
Anything that blocks the flow of urine can make it easier for bacteria to grow and cause infection. These are the reasons included.
- Kidney stones
- Tumors
- Enlarged uterus during pregnancy
- Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
Sexual Activity
Sexual activity is another factor which should increase the risk of kidney infections in females. During the intercourse, bacteria from genital or anal area can be pushed into the urethra. If a woman does not urinate after sex then this bacteria should stay in the urinary tract. After time, this can lead to a bladder infection and if untreated it may reach the kidneys.
Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Infection in Women
Here are the signs and symptoms of kidney infection in females which explain below:
- Fever and chill
- Feeling tired and weak
- Pain in lower back and side
- Nausea and vomit
- Bad smelling urine
- Frequently urge to urinate
- Burning or pain on urination
- Pressure and discomfort in the lower abdominal
How can you Prevent Kidney Infection in Females?
Here are some effective tips to help prevent kidney infection in females which is mentioned below:
- Water can help flush bacteria from your urinary tract so drink at least 8-9 glasses of water each day.
- Holding urine for long periods can give bacteria a chance to grow. If you feel the urge to go then try not to wait.
- You need to clean the external genital area once daily with mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using perfumed products since these can irritate the area and disturb the natural balance.
- If you notice any signs of urinary tract infection (UTI) like burning on urination, increased frequency or cloudy urine then contact your health care provider as soon as possible.
- After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back. This simple habit helps prevent bacteria from the anal area from reaching the urethra.
- You should keep your health conditions like diabetes under control as they can increase your risk of infections if not properly managed.
Complications If Left Untreated
If kidney infection is not treated on time then it could lead to serious health problems. Here are some complications that can happen when kidney infection goes untreated:
- Blood Infection: If blood becomes infected then sepsis can occur. It is a life-threatening illness that requires medical attention.
- Permanent Kidney Damage: If the infections are not treated then it can lead to scarring and loss of kidney function which leads to chronic kidney disease.
- Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women, untreated infection should lead to early labor, low birth weight and high blood pressure which affect both mother and baby.
- High Blood Pressure: The damaged kidneys can lead to high blood pressure, which can cause heart problems or stroke.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope you find the blog informative for learning more about the causes for kidney infections in females. Kidney infections in females frequently develop from untreated urinary tract infections and are more common as a result of anatomical factors, hygiene factors and correlating health conditions. The best way to protect your kidneys and general health is to catch symptoms early and take action.