It is important to note that kidney infections are typically caused by bacteria that have spread from other parts of the body to the kidneys. In most cases, these are the sites in the lower part of the urinary system. The indications can include lower back pain, malaise, fever and oftentimes pain during urination. Always bear in mind that these kidney infections can develop even in healthy individuals and those who have certain health conditions will put an individual at risk for kidney infections.
Bladder infection
The infections involving the bladder are usually triggered by bacterial organisms such as E. coli and quite common among women than men due to the shorter length of the urethra. It is important to note that every kidney is connected to a tube known as the ureter which is linked to the bladder and conveys urine from the kidney to each bladder. An infection that develops in the bladder can spread to the ureter and eventually lead to a kidney infection. If you want to learn more about this type of infection, read here.
Prostate infections
In some cases, the kidney infection can spread to the other organs such as the prostate. This organ in men is responsible for helping with the flow of urine as well as producing some of the components of semen. If infection develops in the prostate due to bacteria, it is called as bacterial prostatitis. Take note that the bacteria can spread to the surrounding organs such as the kidney and bladder, thus resulting to infection.
Structural issues
If there are anatomic deviations or certain conditions, it can also put an individual at higher risk for kidney infections. In one condition known as posterior urethral valves, the unusual position of the valves in the bladder clogs the urine flow, thus causing reflux into the kidneys. The condition will put the individual at higher risk for bladder infections.
When bladder infection is accompanied by the reflux of the urine into the kidneys, it will put the individual at higher risk for kidney infection. There are also other anatomical issues that can be present such as duplicated ureter where two ureters exits on one kidney. This can lead to a somewhat higher risk for developing an infection.
Weakened immune system
Always bear in mind that there are certain conditions that can cause the impairment of the immune system. The immune system is responsible for fighting the infections, thus once weakened or compromised; the individual is more likely to develop a kidney infection. There are certain metabolic conditions such as diabetes that leads to the impairment of the blood flow and the immune system. Take note that diabetes can cause kidney damage and a higher risk for developing kidney infection. The extended use of corticosteroids such as prednisone will also reduce the ability of the immune system to combat infections.