Can a UTI Damage Your Kidneys?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that can affect the bladder, urethra, or other parts of the urinary system. Most UTIs can be treated successfully with proper medical care.

However, an untreated UTI can sometimes spread to the kidneys and cause a kidney infection. If a kidney infection is not treated properly, it can lead to serious health problems.

Knowing the warning signs can help you get treatment at the right time.

What Is a UTI?

A UTI happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause an infection.

A UTI can affect different parts of the urinary system:

• Urethra: The tube that carries urine out of the body
• Bladder: Where urine is stored
• Ureters: Tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
• Kidneys: The organs that filter waste from the blood

Most UTIs affect the bladder and lower urinary tract. When the infection reaches the kidneys, it is called pyelonephritis, or a kidney infection.

Can a UTI Damage Your Kidneys?

Yes, a UTI can damage the kidneys if the infection spreads to the kidneys and is not treated properly.

A bladder infection does not usually cause permanent kidney damage when treated promptly. The greater concern is an infection that travels upward through the urinary tract and reaches the kidneys.

A kidney infection can cause inflammation and, in severe cases, may lead to kidney damage or a serious infection throughout the body.

How Does a UTI Reach the Kidneys?

A UTI often starts in the urethra or bladder. If bacteria are not cleared, they can travel upward through the ureters and reach the kidneys.

The risk may be higher when urine cannot flow normally or when certain health conditions make infections more difficult to clear.

Conditions such as kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or other urinary tract problems can sometimes increase the risk of complications.

Common Symptoms of a UTI

A lower urinary tract infection may cause:

• Burning or pain while urinating
• A frequent need to urinate
• An urgent need to urinate
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Cloudy urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen

These symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they continue or become worse.

Signs That a UTI May Have Reached the Kidneys

A kidney infection can cause more serious symptoms.

Watch for:

• Fever
• Chills or shivering
• Pain in the side or back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling very weak or unwell
• Painful or frequent urination
• Cloudy or bloody urine

Fever with pain in the side or back can be an important warning sign of a kidney infection.

If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Complications?

Some people have a higher risk of developing a kidney infection or complications from a UTI.

This may include people who:

• Have diabetes
• Have kidney stones
• Have problems with urine flow
• Have an enlarged prostate
• Are pregnant
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have repeated UTIs
• Have certain urinary tract abnormalities

Children and older adults may also need special attention when a UTI is suspected.

How Is a UTI Diagnosed?

A healthcare professional may diagnose a UTI based on symptoms and testing.

Urine Test

A urine test can look for signs of infection, such as bacteria, white blood cells, or blood.

Urine Culture

A urine culture can help identify the bacteria causing the infection and may help the doctor choose an appropriate antibiotic.

Other Tests

If a kidney infection or urinary blockage is suspected, the doctor may recommend blood tests or imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan.

How Is a UTI Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection.

A healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics when a bacterial UTI needs antibiotic treatment.

It is important to take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Do not stop the medicine early unless your healthcare professional tells you to do so.

Drinking fluids may be recommended for some people, but the right amount depends on your health. People with certain kidney or heart conditions may need specific fluid advice from their doctor.

Can You Prevent UTIs?

You can take some simple steps that may help reduce the risk of UTIs:

• Drink fluids according to your healthcare professional’s advice
• Do not regularly hold urine for long periods
• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Follow your doctor’s advice if you have repeated UTIs
• Get urinary problems checked early

These steps cannot prevent every UTI, but they may help reduce the risk.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Contact a healthcare professional if you have symptoms of a UTI, especially if they are getting worse or do not improve.

Seek prompt medical attention if you have:

• Fever or chills
• Severe pain in your back or side
• Repeated vomiting
• Blood in your urine
• Severe weakness or confusion
• Difficulty passing urine

A kidney infection can become serious if it is not treated.

Final Thoughts

Most UTIs can be treated successfully, especially when they are identified early. However, an untreated or severe UTI can spread from the bladder to the kidneys and cause a kidney infection.

Pay attention to symptoms such as burning while urinating, frequent urination, fever, chills, and pain in the back or side.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help prevent a UTI from becoming a more serious kidney problem.