Many men learn each year that they have a kidney infection, known medically as acute pyelonephritis. They often begin from a bacteria that has infected the lower urinary tract (urethra, bladder or ureters); sometimes they start as a bacterial infection in the bloodstream that infects the kidneys. They may also originate as a prostate problem or after use of a catheter. Men should be aware of the symptoms of kidney infection in order to obtain timely diagnosis and treatment.
Urinary Changes
Men with a kidney infection may have frequent urination. You may need to void urgently and your urine may be bloody or cloudy. You may have to get up several times a night to urinate. You may feel a burning sensation when you void.
Pain
Merck Manual explains that one or both kidneys may become infected. The infected kidney may become enlarged and tender; this can manifest as pain in your lower back, pain in the area between your side and back or pain in your abdomen on one or both sides. Your abdominal muscles may contract, giving the area a rigid, uncomfortable sensation.
Fever
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center explains that fever may accompany pyelonephritis. This fever can be over 100 degrees F, and you may have intermittent chilling and shaking.
Fatigue
Like many infections, a kidney infection can make you feel fatigued. You may have a feeling of being ill and wanting to rest.
Nausea
Men with kidney infections may experience severe nausea. This is sometimes accompanied by vomiting and loss of appetite.
Fast Heart Rate
You may notice that your heart rate is faster than normal. It may be 100 to 110 beats per minute. According to "Medical-Surgical Nursing," you may also breath more rapidly than usual. These symptoms frequently accompany fever.
Delirium
An older man with a kidney infection may suddenly become confused or delirious. He may be unable to explain that he is having pain in his kidney area, and he may not realize that his urine looks abnormal.
References
- Merck Manual: Kidney Infection
- Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: Urinary Tract Infections
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing;" Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
