What is a kidney infection?
A kidney infection is also known as pyelonephritis. A kidney infection is only one of several infections encompassed by UTI. Infection is produced by the invasion of harmful microorganisms in the body (host). These micro organisms or parasites can be bacteria, protozoans, or viruses. Any infection in any body organ can create serious consequences.
A kidney infection should be treated as a medical condition that needs quick ayurveda kidney treatment. These infections may start in the kidneys. It is often seen as a UTI or a bladder infection that spreads upwards, affecting one or both kidneys. It has been observed that most kidney infections are easy to deal with, and patients recover quickly. While in rare cases, it can lead to serious health problems like painful urination, fever, chills, nausea, etc.
It has been generally observed that mild infections can be easily treated with home remedies. It is always advised that you should never try to treat yourself alone. One must always visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis and to discuss the necessary treatment options. Discussing home remedies and the prescribed medicines with your physician is always wise.
Symptoms of a kidney infection
Kidney infection symptoms start appearing within a few hours to a few days of infection. The duration of the symptoms can vary between children and adults.
A few common symptoms noticed among adults include
- Blood or Pus in urine
- Burning sensation or pain while urinating or Dysuria
- Chills
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Fever
- Frequent urination or Urinary Incontinence
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Pain in the abdomen, back, groin, or sides
Medical treatment for kidney infections
Antibiotics are the first line of defence against any infection in allopathic treatments.
Similarly, a doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics for three to ten days if the condition is not severe for ayurvedic treatment for kidney infection. It is of utmost importance to take the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better within a few doses. Depending upon the severity of the infection, some cases of kidney infections may need hospitalisation.
Ayurvedic treatment for kidney infections
Ayurveda provides natural and simple ways to decrease bacterial load. It suggests ways to promote healthy bacteria. Ayurvedic medicines for kidney infections are found to share fruitful results.
The herbs used makes urinary tract treatment a natural and effective one and try to maintain a normal pH level. It reduces harmful bacteria without any side effects.
Kidney-care ayurvedic medicine for urinary problems includes Gokshura, Punarnava, Guduchi, Chandan and Varun. Ayurveda also suggested simple home care tips. Here is the list of the most commonly followed home remedies to avoid UTIs and improve kidney function.
Drink a lot of water
Drinking plenty of water has always been helpful in flushing the bacteria out of the body. It helps in flushing out the infection faster. It also acts as a cleanser for the urinary system.
It is always advised as a good practice to keep you hydrated well. It must also be taken into consideration that you must limit your water intake by consulting with a physician or a dietician if you are suffering from any kidney disease. The excess water can create a load on your kidney’s filtering ability.
Avoid alcohol and coffee, and aerated beverages.
The kidneys have been functioning to filter out harmful substances and toxins. Alcohol, aerated beverages, and caffeine can put an extra load on the kidneys. Apart from its composition, it may also hinder the healing process from an infection.
Consuming probiotics
We all know that antibiotics are used to destroy the microorganisms affecting your health. Antibiotics may reduce the number of both “good” and “bad” bacteria. Probiotics have been found to majorly benefit the human digestive system. When it comes to treating kidney infections, it has been observed that it will help you keep your body’s healthy bacteria in check.
Intake of vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. It has been commonly found in lemons, amla, guava, and citrus fruits. The antioxidative properties help protect tissues in the body from oxidative stress. This reduction in oxidative stress may help promote kidney health.
Parsley juice
Parsley is a herb and is nutrient-dense. It has some diuretic properties that can increase the frequency and amount of urination. This diuretic ability helps to flush bacteria out of the kidneys faster. It can thus be found effective by being supportive of antibiotics.
Apples and apple juice
An apple a day keeps the doctor away; is an old saying. Apples have high acid content that may help maintain the acidity in the urine. It may restrict the growth of the bacteria in the kidneys too. Apple cider vinegar has been used extensively to heal UTIs, bladder infections, and kidney infections. Apples are also nutrient-dense and also have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Heat fomentation
Kidney infections are always accompanied by abdominal pain. You can use heat therapy/hot fomentation to reduce pain. Apply a heating pad or a hot water bottle to the affected area, and keeping it on for about 20 minutes at a time can help relax tensed muscles.