How is kidney infection treated?

A clinician will ask about fever, flank pain, painful urination and other symptoms, then may arrange a urine test. The sample can help identify infection and guide the choice of antibiotic. Kidney infection can develop from a urinary tract infection and should not be managed with leftover antibiotics or medication prescribed for someone else.

Many people can take antibiotics at home when they are able to drink, keep medicines down and are not seriously unwell. Treatment must be taken exactly as prescribed, even if symptoms start easing. Fluids can help prevent dehydration, but people with fluid restrictions should follow their clinician's advice.

Take the prescribed antibiotic on schedule and ask what to do if you vomit or miss a dose. Rest, drink according to medical advice and use only recommended pain or fever relief. Arrange follow-up if symptoms do not begin improving as expected, return after treatment or remain difficult to control.

Do not delay assessment because burning urination seems mild. Note changes such as blood in urine, worsening flank pain, reduced urination or new confusion, and tell the clinician about pregnancy, kidney problems, allergies and regular medicines.

Seek urgent medical help for high fever with shaking, severe flank pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, marked weakness or difficulty passing urine. Pregnancy, significant kidney disease, an impaired immune system or inability to keep fluids and antibiotics down may require same-day review or hospital treatment.

Ask whether a urine test is needed, how long to take the antibiotic, what improvement to expect, and which symptoms mean you should return urgently.