How to diagnose pyelonephritis?

Written by Zhou Qi
Nephrology
Updated on September 09, 2024
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For the diagnosis of pyelonephritis, it is first necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Generally, patients should first undergo routine urine tests. In these tests, the presence of white blood cells and positive nitrites, along with clinical symptoms such as back pain, blood in urine, and fever are common. A routine blood test often shows elevated white blood cells and C-reactive protein. These indicators together suggest the presence of pyelonephritis. Furthermore, a culture of a clean-catch midstream urine sample can be done. If the bacteria grow to a certain quantity, it can also help in confirming the diagnosis of pyelonephritis. Additionally, to assess complications associated with pyelonephritis, it is necessary to perform blood tests for kidney function and an ultrasound of the urinary system to rule out conditions such as acute renal failure, renal papillary necrosis, and perinephric abscess, among others.

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Written by Zhou Qi
Nephrology
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Pyelonephritis is an infection of the kidneys

In fact, pyelonephritis is not really nephritis; it is actually a type of bacterial inflammatory infection. Bacteria can infect many parts of the body. If the urinary system is infected and it reaches the renal pelvis and calyces, it is referred to as pyelonephritis. Over 95% of pyelonephritis cases are caused by bacterial infections, and 70% are due to Escherichia coli. Generally, this bacteria enters the urinary system from the urethral opening and ascends to the renal pelvis and calyces, where it proliferates and causes an inflammatory response. The main clinical symptoms of the patient are fever and back pain, and the patient may also experience gross hematuria (visible blood in urine).

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Written by Zhou Qi
Nephrology
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What should I do if pyelonephritis recurs?

Pyelonephritis, also known as upper urinary tract infection, is an inflammatory reaction caused by bacterial infection of the urinary system. Therefore, in cases of recurrence of this condition, it is still necessary to use antibiotics for bactericidal treatment, generally requiring a full two-week course, choosing drugs with low nephrotoxicity. Additionally, it is important to investigate whether there are any complicating factors for pyelonephritis, such as the presence of diabetes, urinary system stones, tumors, or urinary tract anomalies. Identifying and addressing these complicating factors can reduce the likelihood of recurrence of pyelonephritis.

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Written by Zhou Qi
Nephrology
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Acute Pyelonephritis Nursing Measures

Acute pyelonephritis, also known as an upper urinary tract infection, is a type of bacterial inflammation. In terms of care, patients should first focus on increasing their fluid intake. If the patient does not have urinary system stones, tumors, or other factors causing urinary obstruction—that is, if there is no kidney hydronephrosis—it is recommended that the patient's daily urine output be maintained at 2000-2500 milliliters. This means increasing fluid intake can help flush the urinary system, reducing bacterial growth and reproduction, which is beneficial for the treatment of pyelonephritis. Secondly, since the patient has acute inflammation, dietary considerations should include eating light, avoiding heavy and greasy foods as well as spicy and stimulating foods, and paying attention to perineal hygiene. Additionally, during episodes of fever, if the patient's body temperature is not very high, a warm water sponge bath can be given, especially focusing on the neck, armpits, and the root of the thighs, which can facilitate heat dissipation and is very beneficial for reducing body temperature.

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Written by Li Liu Sheng
Nephrology
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What causes acute pyelonephritis?

Acute pyelonephritis refers to an acute inflammatory disease caused by bacteria invading the renal pelvis. It is commonly seen in women of childbearing age, the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, and patients with urinary tract obstructions. The main clinical manifestations of acute pyelonephritis typically include frequent urination, increased urination frequency, painful urination, back pain, fever, cold stomach, and it can even present symptoms such as headache, whole body muscle soreness, nausea, and vomiting. The most common pathogen causing acute pyelonephritis is Escherichia coli, while other bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa can also cause infections of acute pyelonephritis. Therefore, it is crucial to actively choose sensitive antibiotics for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis.

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Written by Pan Wu Shan
Nephrology
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What should not be eaten with pyelonephritis?

Pyelonephritis is actually a type of urinary tract infection, which can be divided into pyelonephritis and cystitis. If the bacteria are confined to the bladder without other symptoms, it is called cystitis. At this time, anti-infection treatment is needed, and recovery can usually be achieved within about three to seven days. However, if cystitis is not treated in time, causing the bacteria to enter the kidney along the urinary tract, the patient may develop systemic fever, sometimes high fever from 38°C to 39°C, and may also experience kidney percussion pain, back pain, etc. This condition is called acute pyelonephritis, and its anti-infection treatment course requires two weeks. If the treatment course is insufficient, it is very easy to relapse. Currently, for the diet of pyelonephritis, it is important to maintain a low-salt, low-fat, light diet, avoid spicy, stimulating, cold food, drink more water, and urinate frequently.