Pyelonephritis is a type of kidney infection typically caused by bacteria that ascend from the bladder to the kidneys. This condition is more common in women due to the shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking prompt medical treatment is crucial, as a kidney infection can be serious.

One of the frequent causes of Pyelonephritis is an untreated urinary tract infection (UTI). Symptoms of a kidney infection include flank pain, fever, and often differ from the constant ache of lower back pain. For instance, a kidney stone lodged in the ureter can cause intense pain, differing from typical back pain. Besides UTIs, blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, can also lead to kidney infections by causing urine to back up into the kidneys.

Men can also experience urinary infections, such as urethritis, often caused by sexually transmitted microorganisms like gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate, is another form of urinary infection in men. Upper tract infections, including pyelonephritis, affect the ureters and kidneys.

Kidney stones and infections are leading causes of kidney pain. Injuries and other illnesses can also cause kidney pain. Common causes include kidney infections, which are a type of UTI that reaches the kidneys.

For more information, visit Harvard Health, Mayo Clinic, RUSH, Harvard Health, University of Urinary Tract Infection, Harvard Health, and University of Utah Health.