Acute Pyelonephritis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Acute pyelonephritis is a kidney infection caused by bacteria. The infection may start lower in the urinary tract, such as in your bladder. The infection then travels up the urinary tract to one or both kidneys.

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Medicines:

• Pain medicine: You may need medicine to take away or decrease pain.
  
  
  • Learn how to take your medicine. Ask what medicine and how much you should take. Be sure you know how, when, and how often to take it.
    
    
  • Do not wait until the pain is severe before you take your medicine. Tell caregivers if your pain does not decrease.
    
    
  • Pain medicine can make you dizzy or sleepy. Prevent falls by calling someone when you get out of bed or if you need help.
  
  
• Antibiotics: This medicine is given to fight or prevent an infection caused by bacteria. Always take your antibiotics exactly as ordered by your primary healthcare provider. Do not stop taking your medicine unless directed by your primary healthcare provider. Never save antibiotics or take leftover antibiotics that were given to you for another illness.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed. Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Self-care:

• Rest: You may need more rest as you heal.
  
  
• Drink liquids as directed: Adults should drink between 9 and 13 eight-ounce cups of liquid every day. Ask what amount is best for you. For most people, good liquids to drink are water, juice, and milk.
  
  
• Urinate often: Urinate as soon as you feel the need. Do not wait or hold your urine for too long. This will help flush bacteria from your urinary system.
  
  
• Care for your perineal area: Clean your perineal area every day with soap and water. Wipe from front to back after you urinate or have a bowel movement. Wear cotton underwear. Fabrics such as nylon and polyester can stay damp. This can increase your risk of infection. Urinate within 15 minutes after you have sex. Women should avoid sexual positions that irritate or hurt the urethra or bladder.

Contact your primary healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever after you take antibiotics for 2 days.
  
  
• You have pain when you urinate, even after treatment.
  
  
• Your signs and symptoms return.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have a fever and shaking chills.
  
  
• You cannot stop throwing up.
  
  
• You have severe pain in your abdomen, lower back, or sides.

Learn more about Acute Pyelonephritis (Discharge Care)