Kidney infections are a type of urinary tract infection. Being afflicted with one is not a pleasant experience, to put it nicely, and it requires medical attention and treatment. There are a variety of safe, natural remedies that you can use to treat the symptoms and perhaps diminish the prognosis of a kidney infection.
What Is a Kidney Infection?
A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that
has spread from the urethra or bladder to one or both kidneys. Medical treatment is absolutely necessary for this kind of infection. If it is not treated promptly, a kidney infection will not only be uncomfortable, it can also cause permanent damage and even death.
There are a few factors that increase the risk that you could contract a kidney infection. One factor is being female, since it is easier for a urinary tract infection to spread in a woman's anatomy. A weakened immune system due to a medical condition, or a blockage such as a kidney stone, can also precipitate a kidney infection.
What Does a Kidney Infection Look Like?
Kidney infections present a
variety of symptoms. Abdominal and groin pain, fever and chills, and a persistent need to urinate, will likely occur. Pain during urination, and blood or pus present in the urine, are also all symptoms of a kidney infection. Nausea and vomiting can also occur. If you or a family member think a kidney infection might be occurring, speak to a doctor immediately.
Fortunately, there are treatments available.
A doctor will test the blood or urine of a patient to determine what kind of infection might be present.
Antibiotics are the foremost type of
treatment for kidney infections.
Remedies for Kidney Infections
Knowing that medical treatment is a necessity for a kidney infection, consider these natural remedies as additional steps you can take to treat and rid a kidney infection. Be sure to talk to your doctor when considering these remedies, and keep him or her informed as needed as the infection runs its course.
Drinking water and staying well-hydrated is crucial for someone experiencing a kidney infection.
Drinking water helps flush out foreign bacteria, and also helps to specifically flush out the urinary tract, of course. Staying hydrated also helps prevent UTIs.
Aloe vera is a natural substance with properties that make it
useful in fighting infections, and this benefit might extend to kidney infections as well. Aloe vera is also good because it has
anti-inflammatory and antifungal characteristics, which are good for your overall health if you have an infection.
Garlic has
antimicrobial properties and is therefore useful in combating some infections, such as the
E. coli , which is responsible for some kidney infections. Research shows garlic is effective in combating bacteria, including some that resist antibiotics.
Probiotics, commonly available in supplement form, are beneficial in fighting a kidney infection for two reasons. First of all, they promote the
formation of good bacteria, which is very helpful for a person taking an antibiotic. They also help reduce the effects of diarrhea that can be caused by the use of certain antibiotics.
Vitamin C has a few different potential benefits when it comes to kidney issues. Vitamin C can help
prevent oxidative stress on kidney tissue from occurring. Animal-based research suggests that vitamin C might also prevent kidney scarring during infection, as well as boost healthy enzymes.
Epsom salt is a good, all-around remedy that can make battling a kidney infection easier. An
Epsom salt bath can help ease symptoms of a kidney infection, and help the body to flush other toxic components that might be present at the time.
Applying heat can also help ease the pain of a kidney infection. A warm compress applied to the painful area while you recline can bring some relief while the antibiotics work on your behalf.
Treating a kidney infection requires medical care and patience. Always speak to your doctor if you suspect you might have a kidney infection. Keep these remedies in mind if you or someone you know experiences a kidney infection, and follow the guidance of your healthcare professional.
