Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is a serious urinary tract infection affecting one or both kidneys. It is caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), that travel from the bladder up to the kidneys through the ureters. The Culture, Urine, Routine test is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection and determines which antibiotics will be most effective.
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Kidney infection is caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra and travel up to the bladder, then continue upward to infect one or both kidneys. Escherichia coli (E. coli) from the intestinal tract causes about 80-90% of kidney infections, though other bacteria like Klebsiella, Proteus, and Enterococcus can also be responsible. The bacteria trigger inflammation in the kidney tissue, causing the characteristic symptoms of fever, back pain, and urinary discomfort that distinguish kidney infections from simple bladder infections.
The Culture, Urine, Routine is the most important test for kidney infection because it identifies the exact bacteria causing your infection and tests their sensitivity to different antibiotics. This test takes a sample of your urine and grows any bacteria present in a laboratory, typically revealing results within 24-48 hours. The culture not only confirms the diagnosis of bacterial infection but also provides critical antibiotic sensitivity information, ensuring your doctor prescribes the most effective treatment and helps prevent antibiotic resistance. While blood tests can show inflammation and help assess infection severity, the urine culture is essential for targeting the right antibiotic therapy.
You should get tested if you experience fever above 101°F combined with lower back or side pain, especially if you also notice painful or frequent urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, or blood in your urine. Testing is also urgent if you have a history of urinary tract infections that suddenly worsen with back pain and fever, or if you develop nausea, vomiting, and chills alongside urinary symptoms. Early testing is critical because kidney infections can progress rapidly and lead to serious complications like kidney damage or blood infection if left untreated.
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Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
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