You will need to take antibiotics for at least 10 days. All bacteria must be killed to prevent kidney damage and recurrence of the infection. Your antibiotic may need to be changed after the first day or two of treatment if the urine culture results show a different antibiotic will work better for the bacteria causing your infection. How long it takes you to recover depends on the severity of your symptoms when you start treatment. In mild cases, symptoms lessen in the first 1 to 2 days.
More severe cases require several days before symptoms begin to abate.
With proper treatment there are few complications of pyelonephritis. If your symptoms return soon after you finish your treatment, further tests may be necessary. Your doctor will determine whether an underlying cause is present, such as a kidney stone or kidney abscess. Notice whether your symptoms are responding to the antibiotic treatment. Drink a lot of fluids.