Not very likely. Kidney infections only affect one out of every 30 people who get a UTI, but there are some things that can increase your risk of getting one.

Our AFC Urgent Care Centennial team provides some further information below.

What Are the Common Causes of Kidney Infections?

A kidney infection usually happens when bacteria get into the urethra (the tube which carries urine out of the body) and travel up through the bladder and into the kidneys.

In rare cases, a kidney infection can develop if bacteria or fungi infect the skin, and that infection spreads through the bloodstream and into the kidneys. However, this type of infection usually only occurs in people with weakened immune systems. We’ve listed a few other risk factors to be on the lookout for below.

More Kidney Infection Risk Factors

• Pregnancy. The urinary tract shifts in pregnancy and may make it easier for bacteria to get to the kidneys.
• A weakened immune system. This includes people with diabetes, HIV or AIDS, and those taking medications that suppress the immune system.
• Having problems emptying your bladder completely, which is called urinary retention

Who Has a Greater Risk of Getting a Kidney Infection?

Kidney infections are much more common among women. In fact, women are six times more likely to get a kidney infection than men. This is because a woman’s urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the kidneys.

If you experience any of the symptoms below, you likely have a kidney infection. Don’t wait to visit our AFC center promptly to get the treatment you need to feel better!

Common Symptoms of Kidney Infections

• Pain in your abdomen, back, groin or side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Frequent urination or the feeling that you have to urinate
• Burning or pain while urinating
• Pus or blood in your urine
• Bad-smelling or cloudy urine
• Chills
• Fever

Are you suffering from a kidney infection? Don’t wait to visit our AFC Urgent Care Centennial team today!