Even a simple bladder infection can rapidly progress to pyelonephritis and infection in the bloodstream. Do not allow the symptoms to continue for several days before you seek treatment. Your health care provider reviews your medical history, looking especially for current or recent lower urinary tract infection. You will also have a physical exam, especially to check for pain in the kidney area. A sample of your urine is tested in the lab.
Antibiotics are the main treatment for a kidney infection.
Your health care provider may treat you first as an outpatient. You may continue to be treated at home if you show a good response to the antibiotic after 24 hours. If you are more seriously ill or dehydrated or not responding to the antibiotic, you may need to stay in the hospital. You can be given IV medication and fluids in the hospital. You will need to take antibiotics for at least 10 days.